India Is Becoming a Power in Southeast Asia

Sealing an arms deal with Vietnam. Siding with the Philippines on sovereignty disputes in the South China Sea. Bolstering defense cooperation with Indonesia. India's recent “flurry of regional diplomacy,” as RAND's Derek Grossman calls it, raises the possibility that India will increasingly complement the U.S. Indo-Pacific strategy to counter China. Even if New Delhi's outreach in Southeast Asia remains at current levels, Grossman says, it's “a big win for Washington.” Read more »

When Mass Shooters Are Seeking Fame

For some mass shooters, fame is partially, if not entirely, their motivation. These attackers use a set of common tactics designed to maximize attention and influence, including publishing their manifestos and attack plans online, even livestreaming their atrocities. According to RAND researchers, such tactics can “trigger a cycle of continuous bloodshed.” Fortunately, there are ways to break this cycle. The first step is to deny attackers the attention they seek. Read more »

Data to Improve Flood Insurance and Flood Mitigation Strategies

Standard homeowners and renters insurance policies don't cover damage from floods. But as flooding in the United States becomes more frequent and severe, more properties are likely to experience multiple losses from flood damage. A new RAND study examines the characteristics of properties that have experienced multiple flood losses insured by the National Flood Insurance Program, including their locations and the socioeconomic factors of those affected. This data may help inform decisions related to floodplain management, insurance, and mitigation efforts. Read more »

Misperceptions About the Security Clearance Process

The security clearance process can be confusing and opaque, leading many people to seek clarity online. What information is available on government websites and on public forums, such as Reddit and Federal Soup? And how might this information shape public perceptions—and misperceptions—about the security clearance process? A new RAND report provides answers to these questions and identifies opportunities to demystify the clearance process. Read more »

Making Food Security Warning Systems More Effective

Food security monitoring systems are designed for rural settings, typically drawing on meteorological and other data that identifies risk of food insecurity in agricultural and pastoral food systems. But early warnings about food insecurity remain frustratingly spotty, and actions taken in response to those warnings are often limited—especially for the millions living in urban areas. RAND researchers break down four keys to addressing this. Read more »