This article discusses the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), a group of Eurasian countries, including China and Russia. The SCO aims to increase cooperation on security, economics, and culture. Some analysts believe the SCO could rival NATO, but others argue that internal rivalries and differing goals will prevent it from becoming a severe threat. The US is concerned about China's growing influence but is unlikely to resort to military confrontation.

This article examines the rising tensions between Kurds and Arabs in Iraq. The oil-rich region of Kirkuk is a flashpoint, and the lack of progress on resource sharing and borders threatens to erupt in violence. While past grievances and distrust run deep, the economic progress achieved through cooperation offers a glimmer of hope for a peaceful future.

This article discusses a new approach to nation-building called Development-in-a-Box. The idea is to provide emerging market countries with the infrastructure they need to connect to the global economy. This would be done by creating a standardized package of services like transportation, telecoms, and banking.

This article discusses the worsening situation in Somalia. After a U.S.-backed Ethiopian intervention failed to establish a stable government, radical Islamists, particularly al-Shabab, are gaining control. The country is plagued by violence, a humanitarian crisis, and mass displacement. The international community is struggling to find a solution, and President-elect Obama's leadership is crucial to prevent further deterioration.