July 17, 2020

Wilson Weekly

Democracy in Southeast Asia: Between Discontent and Hope

In a climate marked by increasing U.S.-China competition, political turmoil in Myanmar, Thailand, and Indonesia is creating “democratic discontent” in Southeast Asia. A new report draws on empirical data and interviews to analyze the strategic implications of growing unrest – as well as the opportunities and challenges it poses to regional stakeholders.

EVENT | VIDEO & QUOTES

2036: What Two More Presidential Terms Mean for Putin’s Legacy

“Formal institutions, even if they’re emptied of meaning, still can have meaning,” says Eric Lohr, Professor of Russian History and Culture at American University, of the recent vote in Russia to amend the nation’s constitution.

EVENT | VIDEO & QUOTES

How the South Won the Civil War: Oligarchy, Democracy, and the Continuing Fight for the Soul of America

Professor of History at Boston College Heather Cox Richardson observes that “the West and the South became a political bloc” to influence not only U.S. policy on finance, but also “issues of race and economic development.”

EVENT | VIDEO & QUOTES

Maduro’s Authoritarian Gambit and Economic Crisis: Whither Venezuela?

As Venezuela’s continuing economic and humanitarian crisis is intensified by COVID-19, how will recent moves by Nicolás Maduro to tighten his political grip on the nation play out ahead of December elections?

BLOG POST | NEW SECURITY BEAT

The World Is Your Oyster and Your Plastic Pollution Is Getting Into It

Oysters are part of nature’s self-cleaning system. But they may be too good at it. Learn how the microplastics they help filter from waterways may end up on the menu.

EXPERT ANALYSIS

Russian Bounties in Afghanistan

Reports of cash bounties from Russian operatives to Taliban fighters to kill U.S. servicemen have shocked the nation. Read how Wilson Center experts view the possible responses and long-term consequences of this troubling news.