Brookings: Topics - United Nations

The United Nations Denounces the U.S. Embargo on Cuba … Again

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

For the 18th year in a row, the United Nations General Assembly unequivocally calls for the end of the U.S. embargo against Cuba. Ted Piccone examines the long-running dispute between the international community and the United States and offers suggestions for the future of U.S.-Cuba relations.

The Human Rights of Internally Displaced Persons

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Since 2004 there have been encouraging trends related to internal displacement. Walter Kälin notes that the use of the Guiding Principles as the relevant framework for protecting IDPs and the development of national and regional laws and policies on internal displacement have been positive trends. However, despite such positive trends, the challenges presented by climate change, the disregard for civilian populations in conflict zones, a shrinking humanitarian space, and protracted displacement situations still remain unchanged.

Climate Change and Latin America: The Long Way to Copenhagen

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Only a few regions in the world are more affected by climate change than Latin America. However the region lacks a common perspective and will not be heard in the U.S. Congress or in international deliberations in Copenhagen unless it unifies as a strong voice. Mauricio Cárdenas proposes a formal subgroup of several Latin American countries for cooperation on climate change and points to specific commitments they should consider.

President Obama and Australian President Rudd Sounded Good in Pittsburgh

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove writes that the UN General Assembly in New York and G-20 Summit in Pittsburgh proved fruitful for the United States and Australia. Fullilove notes both Obama and Rudd are tough diplomats who believe national interests are better pursued in concert with others, and he concludes the recent meetings bolstered their ideas and goals.

The Case for Australia's UN Security Council Bid

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

More than a year ago, Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd announced his country’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2013-2014. Michael Fullilove breaks down the arguments of critics of the plan, provides a look at public opinion, and explains why UN Security Council membership is in Australia's best interest.

U.S.-China Clean Energy Cooperation: The Road Ahead

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kenneth Lieberthal analyzes the politics of U.S.-China cooperation, recommends how to structure a bilateral agreement on clean energy, and describes how the two countries can work together to shape a more successful UN climate change conference in Copenhagen.

Barack Obama as Quiet International Reformer

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This week, President Obama places himself squarely at the center of multilateral diplomacy, first at the UN General Assembly and later at the G-20 Summitt in Pittsburgh. Bruce Jones and Richard Gowan examine the Obama administration's continuing investment in multilateralism and why it does not always pay off so easily.

Needed: Less Drift, More Mastery

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When President Barack Obama addresses foreign leaders at the UN General Assembly and the G-20 Summit later this week, it’s a safe prediction that no one will boo or shout insults at him, at least within the halls, says Strobe Talbott. The hearing he gets in New York and Pittsburgh will reflect the astronomical popularity and hopes for his success that Obama enjoys around the globe.

Previewing the United Nations General Assembly: A Discussion with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 10:30:50 GMT

Event Information:

September 18, 2009, 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM

World leaders are now in New York as the United Nations General Assembly opens its 64th session. Last week, Brookings hosted Secretary of State Hillary Clinton for a speech previewing the U.S. agenda for the assembly, including addressing Iran, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, climate change, and the Middle East peace process.

President Obama and the Restoration of Multilateral Diplomacy

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As President Obama travels to the UN and G-20 summits, he will place himself squarely at the center of multilateral diplomacy. His administration has started to lay out its vision, but several tough questions, such as Security Council reform, have yet to be publically addressed. Bruce Jones and Richard Gowan assess President Obama's efforts to restore U.S. leadership in multilateral forums to date.

UN Says Afghan Opium Production Down

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

According to a new United Nations report, Opium cultivation is down 22 percent in Afghanistan. Vanda Felbab-Brown joined National Public Radio to discuss why the significance of these numbers should not be overestimated and to offer insight into the new counternarcotics strategy in Afghanistan.

Up Close and from the Tower: Two Views of Refugee and Internally Displaced Populations

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The numbers are startling. There are close to 40 million refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the world today, uprooted by conflict and human rights violations. The problems facing the refugees and IDPs are daunting. While reviewing two books, Cohen argues that the overall problem of forced migration goes beyond humanitarian and human rights solutions, requiring multilateral action aimed at preventing and resolving the crises at the heart of displacement.

U.S. Boots On Congo Ground

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Since the early 1990s, Congo has been on a rapid descent as Genocide in Rwanda spilled over the border and other internal human rights issues worsen. Michael O'Hanlon writes that the United States needs to lead by example and plan to deploy a specialized volunteer force of U.S. military peacekeeping monitors to strengthen the security of the nation.

Barack Obama, Kevin Rudd and the Australia-U.S. Alliance

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Over the past decade, much of the commentary on the Australia-U.S. alliance has focused on how the conservative leaders of both nations formulated policy. Michael Fullilove and Michael O'Hanlon analyze the developing relationship between Democratic President Barack Obama and Labor Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and how it may reshape the alliance.

Report of the Representative of the Secretary-General on the Human Rights of Internally Displaced Persons

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Internal displacement continues to be one of the world's major humanitarian and human rights challenges and many internally displaced persons (IDPs) experience serious violations of their human rights. In his annual report to the UN General Assembly, Walter Kälin argues that it is important to translate the increasing recognition of the human rights dimension of internal displacement at the international and regional levels into effective action at the national and local levels of government.

Raising Human Rights with North Korea

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The U.S. government's policies toward North Korea in recent years have drawn criticism for focusing primarily on denuclearization, while neglecting human rights issues, even as the country's human rights situation remains dire. Roberta Cohen says arguments against including human rights in discussions with North Korea are flawed and recommends integrating human rights as part of an overall U.S. policy toward North Korea.

Europe and the Emerging Powers at the G8 Summit: "Taxation without Representation"

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the G8 summit nears, Bruce Jones highlights the problems involved in holding international decision-making meetings with just a handful of countries in an increasingly interconnected world. Jones argues that it is time to get serious about new modes of cooperation that gives a stronger voice to rising powers such as India and China.

North Korea’s Nuclear and Missile Tests and the Six-Party Talks: Where Do We Go From Here?

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In testimony before Congress on June 17, senior fellow and CNAPS director Richard Bush described how North Korea’s recent nuclear and missile tests have transformed the challenge faced by the international system. Dr. Bush testified that it is now clear that North Korea bases its security on nuclear weapons, and the hope that it will abandon the nuclear option has disappeared.

China and Russia: When Giants Meet

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hu Jintao's recent visit to Moscow showed off the significant strides in bilateral relations between China and Russia. David Shambaugh notes that the real challenge for the United States and Europe is to engage both nations in a broader global partnership and to break the Beijing-Moscow duopoly that often splits the U.N. Security Council.

Mass Displacement Caused by Conflicts and One-Sided Violence

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Massive displacement of people within and across borders has become a defining feature of the post-cold war world. It is also a major feature of human insecurity in which genocide, terrorism, egregious human rights violations and appalling human degradation wreak havoc on civilians. Though there has been a critical shift in thinking at the international level with regards to forced displacement, Cohen and Deng argue that concepts of sovereignty as responsibility and the responsibility to protect remain far ahead of international willingness and capacity to enforce them.

Human Rights in North Korea: Some Recommendations for the Obama Administration

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The North Korean human rights record is one of the most egregious in the world, yet the United States has not to date found an effective way to address the issue. Brookings Nonresident Senior Fellow Roberta Cohen proposes to the Obama administration the development of a strategy for integrating human rights into any future dealings with North Korea, be they multilateral or bilateral.

Democratic Republic of Congo: World's Deadliest Spot

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

With all the attention given to and other hot spots around the world, one place consistently is forgotten—the Democratic Republic of Congo. Bruce Jones and Michael O'Hanlon lay out options for the United States and its international partners to address the conflict.

An Institutional Gap for Disaster IDPs

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Climate change is expected to sharply increase the number and severity of natural disasters, displacing millions on all continents. Roberta Cohen argues that the international community needs to recognize "disaster IDPs" and establish new institutional arrangements to protect their human rights.

Shaping a Globalized World

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Carlos Pascual believes short- and long-term issues of globalization cannot be considered independently from one another. Rather, the biggest challenge for transnational governance lies in the scale of the global agenda, and the complexity and interconnectedness of individual issues. Pascual calls for a redefinition of global responsibilities in order to tackle the essential challenges of a globalized world.

Human Rights and Internal Displacement

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Marking the 10th Anniversary of the adoption of the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement has provided an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the Guiding Principles. However, according to Walter Kälin, the dire situation on the ground for the world's over 26 million IDPs indicates that more work needs to be done.

Global Governance and What It Means

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ann Florini discussed the difference between "global government" and "global governance," intergovernmental organizations such as the UN, and the role and achievements of civil society and transnational networks, particularly on environmental issues.

Internally Displaced Persons: A Neglected Issue on the International Agenda

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the world commemorates the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Elizabeth Ferris writes that it is timely to focus on international efforts to uphold the rights of those who have been forced to leave their homes and communities.

Global Governance Breakthrough: The G20 Summit and the Future Agenda

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Paul Martin, former Prime Minister of Canada, and Senior Fellows Colin Bradford and Johannes Linn assess the successful G20 Summit, its impact on global governance and provide recommendations for President-elect Obama. They argue that the next administration can build an inclusive and cooperative summit group to resolve the current financial and economic crisis as well as address other major complex global challenges and opportunities.

Putting Principles Into Action: Ten Years of the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

December 17, 2008, 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM

In 1998, 30 basic principles describing human rights standards for the internally displaced were presented to the United Nations. These principles were adopted and are today known as the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement and are the international standard on protecting the rights of internally displaced persons (IDPs). The Brookings-Bern Project hosted a panel discussion on the successes of the Guiding Principles as well as challenges that remain in protecting the rights of IDPs.

Human Rights, Asia and the New Administration

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

December 10 marks the 60^th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations General Assembly. Catharin Dalpino writes that the Obama administration will face unprecedented challenges in the promotion of human rights in Asia, but is also likely to find new opportunities and should adopt a fresh approach.

Tackling the Crisis of Global Order

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Strobe Talbott and Thomas Pickering of the U.S. Advisory Group of the Managing Global Insecurity Project joined co-directors Carlos Pascual, Bruce Jones, and Stephen Stedman to assess several lessons of the current global financial crisis and resulting G20 summit. They argue that even though this is a trying time, it has brought about renewed prospects of broader cooperation, which is something the global community needs now more than ever.

Crisis in Congo: The Search for an International Response

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 14, 2008, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

With escalating tensions in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), more than 200,000 displaced civilians are living in camps seeking refuge from the violence. Given the ever-worsening situation in the DRC, what are the options to prevent a humanitarian disaster? Will the international community organize an effective international response? On November 14, the Brookings Institution will host a discussion on the crisis in Congo.

Building International Order in an Era of Transnational Threat

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 14:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 13, 2008, 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM

On November 13, 2008, the Managing Global Insecurity (MGI) co-directors launched “A Plan for Action: A New Era of International Cooperation for a Changed World- 2009, 2010, and Beyond” at the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies (FSI) Transitions 2009 International Conference.

Managing Global Insecurity: A Plan for Action

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

American and global leaders face a choice: they can either use this moment to help shape an international, rule-based order that will protect their global interests, or resign themselves to an ad hoc international system where they are increasingly powerless to shape the course of international affairs. The longer the delay in new approaches and new cooperation against today’s threats, the more difficult the challenges will become. Global leaders must chart a shared path forward that marries power and responsibility to achieve together what cannot be achieved apart: peace and security in a transnational world.

Taking Stock and Moving Forward: RSG Statement to the UN General Assembly

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Despite important achievements, people continue to be displaced and their rights continue to be violated. Millions of internally displaced persons continue to languish in protracted situations. Humanitarian access in particular to persons displaced during armed conflicts is often not possible. While we should indeed be proud of the improvements since the adoption of the Guiding Principles, much remains to be done.

Democracies: In a League of their Own?

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ted Piccone outlines several versions of the League of Democracies concept that has reemerged during the 2008 U.S. presidential campaign. Though it finds support in both conservative and liberal circles, Piccone argues that the current framework will not succeed in today’s political environment. However, Piccone believes democracy promotion should remain a top priority for the next administration, and he offers recommendations for strengthening multilateral approaches.

Transatlantic Dialogue on Revitalizing the International Security System

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

September 26, 2008, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
September 27, 2008, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

On September 26-27, 2008 in New York City, the Managing Global Insecurity (MGI) Project, the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) and the Brookings Institution Center on United States and Europe (CUSE) gathered representatives and experts from the United States and across Europe to discuss U.S. and European priorities for reform of the international security system.

U.S.-U.N. Relationship: 2009 and Beyond

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As President Bush delivered his last speech before the United Nations General Assembly this week, Brookings Visiting Fellow Lee Feinstein observes that many of the issues facing the U.N. in 2001 remain undiminished and unresolved today. Feinstein urges the next president to work with the United Nations and to be “a forceful advocate” of U.S. interests within the United Nations system.

Securing Georgia

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The military conflict between Russia and Georgia over two breakaway regions has subsided, but continues on in strained relations between Russia and western powers, including the United States. Carlos Pascual and Steven Pifer propose a 10-point plan to monitor events on the ground in Georgia, mobilize NATO and the UN, and enforce international law.

Resurgent Russia Challenges U.S. Diplomacy

Sat, 16 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The United States has found itself in a difficult position with the conflict between Georgia and Russia. Strobe Talbott talks with Scott Simon about U.S. relations in the region.

The Looming Crisis: Displacement and Security in Iraq

Thu, 07 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Lost in discussions of the military surge, the pace of troop drawdowns, and political benchmarks are millions of displaced Iraqis. Their plight is both a humanitarian tragedy and a strategic crisis that is not being addressed.

Myanmar: Where Do We Go From Here?

Sun, 03 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As the aftermath of cyclone Nargis becomes clearer, Lex Rieffel and David I. Steinberg argue that the best hope for tangible improvements in the daily lives of Myanmar's people is the newly adopted charter of the 10 ASEAN member countries. The charter has a weak human-rights provision, but it will provide a stronger basis for dialogue with the Myanmar government.

Il voto sullo Zimbabwe nella partita a scacchi tra Usa e Russia

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Federiga Bindi assesses Zimbabwe under Robert Mugabe and Russia's veto of proposed United Nations sanctions against the country. (Italian)

The Burma Cyclone and the Responsibility to Protect

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In 2005, the international community adopted a new concept, the responsibility to protect (R2P) but its meaning and application are still unclear. The United Nations ruled out applying it to Burma, but Roberta Cohen argues that the denial of access to cyclone survivors could well have been an R2P case. Much work needs to be done to clarify the concept and mobilize international support around its implementation.

Europe’s Role in Nation-Building

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

July 08, 2008, 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM

Despite ample experience over the past decade, Western nations are still learning difficult lessons when it comes to nation-building and are still developing the skills needed to address this dauntingly complex task. On July 8, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings hosted James Dobbins, one of the foremost practitioners in the field, for a discussion of a new RAND Corporation study, Europe’s Role in Nation Building: From the Balkans to the Congo.

Score One for the NGOs

Sat, 05 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ted Piccone explores the Nigerian presidency of the United Nations Human Rights Council and recent U.S. reluctance to work with international organizations. In this piece for washingtonpost.com's Think Tank Town, Piccone argues that recent events prove "how much NGOs can achieve by persuading democratic countries in the developing world to stand up for human rights."

L’Italia, attore centrale nei negoziati con l’Iran?

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Federiga Bindi discusses Italy’s inclusion in the 5+1 Group and negotiations with Iran. (Italian with translation available)

Disaster Standards Needed in Asia

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In this Brookings Northeast Asia Commentary, Nonresident Senior Fellow Roberta Cohen calls for the development of performance standards for addressing natural disasters including the cyclone in Burma, earthquake in China, and famine in North Korea. Without such standards, states and the international community may be hampered in saving lives and reconstruction efforts.

A League of Democracies: Doomed to Fail?

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ted Piccone and Morton Halperin believe John McCain's proposal to create a League of Democracies is doomed to fail, partly because it revives a Cold War mentality pitting the "good guys against the bad." A better scenario, they argue, would be to reinvigorate the Community of Democracies around issues like economic incentives for developing democracies and confronting terrorism.

Purposes of a League of Democracies

Thu, 29 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In this video clip of a discussion held by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, Ivo Daalder explains what he sees as the four purposes of a proposed league (or concert) of democracies.

Cyclone Nargis: Catalyst for Change in Myanmar?

Fri, 16 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As the scope of tropical cyclone Nargis becomes clearer, Elizabeth Ferris and Lex Rieffel recall that the 2004 tsunami, which struck Aceh provice in Indonesia among other places, was both a human tragedy and a political blessing. They argue that this experience is not likely to be replicated in Myanmar because the regime will continue to refuse much of the assistance offered by foreign governments and international NGOs.

Aid Strategy for Burma's Cyclone Victims

Tue, 13 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As the disaster caused by tropical cyclone Nargis continues to unfold in Burma, Michael O'Hanlon offers suggestions for dealing with the crisis. He believes the UN should appoint an aid coordinator to Burma, and that political activities against the government should be put on hold during this time of great need.

The United Nations Can Save Burma

Tue, 13 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In the aftermath of tropical cyclone Nargis, Ivo Daalder and Paul Stares note "the military junta in Burma is failing the most basic responsibility of any government to take care of its citizens." They suggest that the United Nations must pass a resolution demanding the Burmese government to immediately accept offers of international aid without interference.

Managing Civil Violence & Regional Conflict

Mon, 05 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Fragile states are both a cause and manifestation of a breakdown in international order, and civil violence often ends up crossing borders. The Managing Global Insecurity project examines new challenges to regional and international security and offers suggestions for dealing with them.

Combating International Terrorism

Mon, 05 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

No state, however powerful, can defend itself unilaterally against transnational terrorism, and the most dangerous forms -- nuclear and biological weapons -- require extensive cooperation. The Managing Global Insecurity project offers recommendations for dealing with this threat.

Rising Food Prices: a Global Crisis

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Rising food prices partly reflect the spillover from high energy costs, and are causing major problems for poor people. Homi Kharas argues for more development assistance for agriculture production to increase food supplies in the long run as well as for more assistance for sustainable development projects to create jobs and higher wages so that poor people can afford the rising costs of food.

Global Displacement and the Implications for Refugees

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 15:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 23, 2008, 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM

On April 23, the Brookings-Bern Project on Internal Displacement hosted the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, António Guterres, for an address on the growth in scale, scope and complexity of global mobility and its effects on refugees. Senator Sam Brownback (R-Kan.) provided brief remarks and introduced High Commissioner Guterres.

Iraq 2012: What Can It Look Like, How Do We Get There?

Thu, 03 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Testifying before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Carlos Pascual addressed the vulnerability that Iraq’s ongoing crisis presents for U.S. troops, key elements for a revised diplomatic strategy, and critical issues in need of debate.

Durable Solutions for Internally Displaced Persons: An Essential Dimension of Peacebuilding

Thu, 13 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In order to find durable solutions for IDPs it is necessary to include four key elements: 1) returns should be voluntary, 2) the safety of the returnees needs to be ensured, 3) mechanisms for returning property and reconstruction of housing need to be in place, and 4) returnees need access to basic public services and livelihoods.

Durable Solutions for Internally Displaced Persons: An Essential Dimension of Peacebuilding

Thu, 13 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Resolving internal displacement—and preventing future displacement—is inextricably linked to achieving lasting peace. On one hand, unresolved problems of displacement may cause instability and thus threaten peacebuilding efforts. On the other hand, durable solutions, particularly return, cannot be achieved for IDPs as long as there is a lack of security, property is not restored, and conditions for sustainable solutions are not in place.

'Hard Bargaining' Necessary with Sudan on Darfur Peacekeeping Force

Wed, 06 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Despite the UN resolution creating an international peacekeeping force for Darfur with 26,000 troops, the force has been unable to fully deploy into the region. Brookings expert Roberta Cohen discusses the difficulties surrounding the deployment with Stephanie Hanson of the Council on Foreign Relations.

Warning Light on Kosovo

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Over Serbia's strong opposition, the U.S. and other western nations recognized Kosovo's February 17, 2008 declaration of independence. Prior to that action, Peter Rodman, John Bolton and Lawrence Eagleburger had argued that this could provoke Serbia and be viewed as a direct challenge to the Russian Federation. The authors also called a re-examination of U.S. policy toward the region.

Climate Change in the Overall Development Context

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

January 31, 2008, 12:00 PM to 12:00

Brookings Global hosted a private dinner with Kemal Derviş, Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme, on January 31, 2008 as part of an ongoing Global Seminar Series. Mr. Derviş discussed the impact of climate change on the overall development context.

Building Capacity for Stabilization & Reconstruction

Tue, 29 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In testimony before the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Oversight & Investigations Carlos Pascual addressed the need to increase U.S. stabilization and reconstruction capacity in weak or failed states. He notes that "stabilization and reconstruction initiatives require multilateral cooperation ... and the capacity to sustain them over at least a 5-10 year period."

Iraq's Unknown Economy

Sun, 06 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As Iraq's security situation continues to improve, Michael O'Hanlon discusses the economic aspects of improvement in the country. While gains have been made on inflation, oil revenue and electricity production, among other areas, O'Hanlon states that we must work towards a better understanding of data to quantify progress on the economic front as well as work with international partners to better the situation on the ground.

Special Procedures Mandate Holders Deeply Concerned by Situation in Kenya

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The humanitarian crisis resulting from ongoing violence in Kenya greatly concerns the UN special mandate holders. The violence has caused massive displacement, which is putting large numbers of people at risk and threatens their enjoyment of their human rights.

Climate Change: Beyond Bali

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

David Sandalow notes that the road from climate change negotiations in Bali will be filled with challenges. Work must proceed immediately on dozens of complex topics. Yet a key player in the final negotiations – the next U.S. President – is not yet at the table and obviously cannot be for more than a year.

Promotion and Protection of Human Rights - Review, Rationalization and Improvement of Mandates

Thu, 13 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Internal displacement has been at the center of State preoccupations and of the Human Rights Council (and its predecessor) for the past 15 years. Despite progress in clarifying the normative framework for the protection of IDPs and the institutional responses, the number of IDPs has not diminished significantly, with still over 24 million displaced persons worldwide.

Russia is Crucial to Action over a Nuclear Iran

Tue, 04 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Following a report by the IAEA stating that Iran continues to violate its nuclear commitments, the United States hopes to further tighten sanctions. Instead, Philip Gordon notes "America needs to prepare for another contingency - that Russia will block action at the Security Council despite the IAEA report."

U.N. Climate Change Conference: Thinking Beyond Kyoto

Tue, 04 Dec 2007 14:49:41 GMT

The United Nation’s climate talks have begun in Bali with participants from nearly 200 countries. Carlos Pascual, vice president and director of Foreign Policy at Brookings, says the negotiations are aimed at producing a pact that will replace the Kyoto Protocol – which expires in 2012.

How the Millennium Development Goals Are Unfair to Africa

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

In a new Brookings Global working paper, William Easterly analyzes the targets of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and argues that the initial definitions of “success” or “failure” have made attainment of the MGDs less likely in Africa than in other regions.

Central Asia: A New Hub of Global Integration

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Central Asia, once viewed as the backyard of the Soviet Union, is now Eurasia's hub of economic integration. Johannes Linn, Brookings Scholar and Special Adviser to the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation Program (CAREC), explains what a recent spate of high-level meetings mean for the future of Central Asia, Eurasia and the rest of the world.

Challenges Facing the Climate Change Conference

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 17:07:40 GMT

As delegates gather for the U.N. Climate Change Conference in Bali, Indonesia this week, world leaders will try to devise a comprehensive agreement on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Brookings scholar Warwick McKibbin says the issues are complex with both environmental and economic considerations.

Recipe for European Climate Leadership

Sat, 17 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Climate change policies require thoughtful decision making to avert catastrophic damage to the Earth. Nigel Purvis argues that "despite the obvious need for urgent action, patient and adaptive European diplomacy will best serve the world."

United Nations for Taiwan? How will China and the U.S. React?

Mon, 29 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Two Taiwanese proposals for referenda on whether and how Taiwan should join the United Nations have caused serious concern in both the U.S. and China. The U.S. has sent high-profile warnings against a controversial referendum to Taipei, but there is no sign that either the pan-green or the pan-blue would retreat from or modify their plans, which call for referenda in March 200. How the U.S. and China will deal with this situation over the next five months is a key question for stability in East Asia.

Regional Dimensions to the Iraqi Displacement Crisis and the Role of the United Nations

Thu, 25 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The nature of the conflict in Iraq has created a displacement crisis marked by situations of urban displacement, making humanitarian assistance more difficult.

Iran Sanctions and Regional Security

Tue, 23 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The Bush Administration has issued sweeping new sanctions against Iran and its Revolutionary Guard. Philip Gordon told a congressional committee that there are no guarantees that the Iranian regime will stop its nuclear enrichment, but America must increase economic and diplomatic pressure while holding out the possibility of a better future for the Iranian people if Iran is willing to compromise.

Refugee Issues Relating to China

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

China's behavior in the human rights and refugee spheres over the past decades has moved forward in some positive ways, but its actions are still quite unrestrained by international norms.

Reform of Global Governance: Priorities for Action

Thu, 18 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Governance reform was high on the agenda at the recent World Bank/IMF Annual Meeting in Washington. Brookings experts Colin Bradford and Johannes Linn examine priorities for reform at both institutions and other global organizations in a new Policy Brief.

The Current Situation in Darfur

Sun, 07 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Susan Rice discusses current and future international and U.S. response and policy to the Darfur conflict.

UN Transformation in an Era of Soft Balancing

Sun, 30 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From 2003 to 2006 Secretary General Kofi Annan pursued the most ambitious overhaul of the United Nations since its inception. This article is written from the perspective of the team working with Kofi Annan on the reform agenda and reflects on the issues faced and choices made.

Humanitarian Reform: Responding to IDP Situations in Non-cluster Countries

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Elizabeth Ferris discusses a gap in humanitarian reform: addressing the needs of internally displaced persons living in protracted situations. Much has been written in recent years about protracted refugee situations, but virtually nothing has been published about long-term internal displacement.

The United Nations in Iraq

Sat, 01 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Carlos Pascual argues that a serious and calibrated United Nations role in Iraq is both justified and necessary, even if success cannot be guaranteed. "Iraq is not just an American problem - and there are no viable American unilateral solutions."

The U.N.'s Role in Iraq

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Carlos Pascual and Brian Cullin, The Washington Post (8/23/07)

Foreword to Coming to Terms with Forced Migration: Post-Displacement Restitution of Citizenship Rights in Turkey

Wed, 15 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Book Foreword by Roberta Cohen (08/15/07)

Relief and Rights Are Needed to Respond to South Asia's Floods

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion Piece by Elizabeth Ferris (8/13/07)

Will Security Council Resolution 1769 Make a Difference in Darfur?

Thu, 09 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Commentary by Roberta Cohen (8/9/07)

The Next Intervention: Legitimacy Matters

Mon, 06 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Ivo Daalder and Robert Kagan, The Washington Post (8/6/07)

Attack on a Fundamental Right

Sun, 22 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Letter to the Editor by Roberta Cohen, Washington Post (7/22/07)

The Evolution of Humanitarian Intervention and the Responsibility to Protect

Sun, 01 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

In this chapter from Beyond Preemption, Susan Rice and Andrew Loomis write that failure to respond to current humanitarian disasters is inexcusable and offer ideas to handle them.

Iraqi Refugees: Our Problem or Sweden's?

Mon, 18 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The near-blind eye the United States has turned to the humanitarian crisis now unfolding from the Iraq war threatens to undermine any hope for real peace and security in that region for years and perhaps decades to come. The displacement of 4 million Iraqis to date -- one in seven of the country's citizens -- is the largest the Middle East has known since 1948.

A Brokered Peace: U.N. Mediation Is the Best Hope for a Political Settlement in Iraq

Tue, 27 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Carlos Pascual, The Washington Post (3/27/07)

The Escalating Crisis in Darfur

Thu, 08 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Testimony by Susan E. Rice before the House Committee on Foreign Affairs (2/8/07)

Global Governance Reform : Breaking the Stalemate

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The International Monetary Fund, World Bank, and UN were founded after World War II, and their structures of voting power and representation have become obsolete, no longer reflecting todays balance of economic and political power. This insightful b

Regional Diplomacy Potential in Iraq

Sun, 21 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Carlos Pascual and Michael E. O'Hanlon, The Washington Times (1/21/07)

Climate Change: Creating an E8

Mon, 01 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Article by Todd Stern and William J. Antholis, The American Interest (January/February 2007)

Democracies of the World, Unite

Mon, 01 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The Bush revolution in foreign policy is over. After September 11, the Administration acted on the conviction that an America that dared to shake off the constraints of international rules, laws and institutions could remake the world for the better.

How Bush Can Fix His Policy Failures

Mon, 18 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Strobe Talbott, Financial Times (12/18/06)

U.S. and Europe Must Learn About Alliances

Thu, 14 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Ivo H. Daalder and James Goldgeier, Financial Times (12/14/06)

The United Nations at a Crossroads: Debating the Use of Force in an Evolving World

Thu, 12 Oct 2006 11:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 12, 2006, 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM