Policy Currents | The newsletter for policy people
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** July 15, 2025
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Can AI Help Improve HR at the Pentagon?
With the largest civilian workforce in the federal government, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) faces many human resource challenges, including lengthy hiring timelines, complex benefits administration, and resource-intensive customer service. Could artificial intelligence help?
According to a new RAND study, the answer is yes. AI has the potential to enhance DoD civilian human resource management in several ways.
For example, machine learning algorithms could improve applicants' experiences by streamlining job searches and matching candidates to positions. Predictive analytics could help optimize workforce planning. AI tools could also enhance job analysis, position classification, and hiring efficiency.
However, implementing AI applications brings its own set of challenges, including potential legal barriers, data privacy and security concerns, and data quality issues.
In other words, AI could indeed transform civilian defense human resource management--but it will require sustained effort and investment.
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A Primer on China-Africa Relations
What's the history of Chinese engagement with Africa? What do Beijing's growing relationships on the continent look like today? And how do African countries view the potential benefits and risks of engaging with China? A new RAND report summarizes China-Africa relations, breaking down China's economic, political, and security interests. The authors highlight that China has succeeded in part because it presents African countries with a credible alternative to a Western-led rules-based order. They also outline implications and recommendations for Western countries as China continues to seek greater influence in Africa.
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Undersea Cables Power Europe. How Vulnerable Are They?
European countries rely on cables and pipes under the sea for their energy and communications. In fact, this underwater network supports about $9 trillion of trade per day. That's why a disruptive attack by a bad actor would be catastrophic. Fortunately, according to RAND Europe's John Aitken, a coordinated attack would not be an easy feat. Still, the threat to Europe's critical undersea infrastructure should be taken seriously, he says: "Vigilance, investment, and realism--not alarmism--will be the foundation of a credible undersea defense."
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** RAND Recommends
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- RAND's David Luckey discusses how China could do more to curb the supply of illicit fentanyl to the United States.
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- Should you let your pet sleep with you? RAND's Wendy Troxel, a renowned sleep scientist, writes in USA Today: "Sharing your bed with a pet is a recipe for disrupted sleep."
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** Events
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A Discussion on Recent Trends Among the Unsheltered in Los Angeles
Wednesday July 30, 2025 (Online)
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Policy Lab: Restoring U.S. and Allied Military Power and Influence
Thursday July 31, 2025 (Online)
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** Policy Minded, RAND's Flagship Podcast
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On Policy Minded, we pick the brains of the world's top policy experts. In each episode, RAND researchers join us for conversations that go beyond the headlines--bringing you insights you can't find anywhere else.
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