Why It Matters

Paul B. Stares, a senior fellow for conflict prevention, explores the chaotic landscape of 2024. He discusses the alarming rise of domestic terrorism and political violence linked to election polarization in the U.S. Stares highlights how this unrest might weaken America's global credibility. He also addresses the migration crisis at the southern border, stressing the urgent need to tackle root causes. Additionally, he emphasizes the often-overlooked influence of climate change on future conflicts, suggesting a tumultuous year ahead.

The podcast explores the risks of AI in elections and the potential for AI-powered disinformation. It delves into the dangers of deep fakes and the threat they pose to democracy. The challenges of election security efforts and the risks of manipulation are also discussed. The podcast emphasizes the need for AI governance to address disinformation campaigns and deep fakes. It concludes by highlighting the importance of informed leaders and the need for diversity in decision-making about AI governance.

Exploring the shared concerns and challenges between the US and India, including the impact of India's nuclear tests, the Biden administration's stance on India and its implications, the limitations and concerns of US-India collaboration on China, the differing views on the Quad, and the limitations and challenges in the US-India relationship.

An ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, the US government's support of Israel, shifting US public opinion, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the involvement of the United States in the war, the role of US aircraft carriers, domestic public opinion, the status quo in Israel and Palestine, the controversy surrounding aid to Israel, and analyzing the US role in resolving the conflict.

International trade has shaped the world for much of the past century. Countries benefited from the global flow of goods, and the world became richer and safer. At the same time, many Americans lost their jobs to cheaper overseas competitors. Now, a series of compounding challenges, including great power competition and climate change, have led U.S. officials to rethink trade policy. What's next for international trade? And can the United States retain the benefits of trade while protecting critical supply chains and fighting climate change?   Featured Guests: Jennifer Hillman (Senior Fellow for Trade and International Political Economy) Inu Manak (Fellow for Trade Policy) Edward Alden (Bernard L. Schwartz Senior Fellow)   For an episode transcript and show notes, visit us at https://www.cfr.org/podcasts/turning-point-global-trade

Over the past few years, a new threat has emerged as a leading cause of death in the United States: fentanyl. Yet even as the drug wreaks havoc on Americans lives, preventing its flow into the United States is complicated, partially because of the supply’s overseas origins, which is often China. What is China’s role in the U.S. fentanyl crisis?   Featured Guests: Tom Bollyky (​​Senior Fellow for Global Health, Economics, and Development, and Director of the Global Health Program) Zongyuan Zoe Liu (Maurice R. Greenberg Fellow for China Studies)   For an episode transcript and show notes, visit us at: https://www.cfr.org/podcasts/americas-fentanyl-epidemic-china-connection

The podcast discusses the urgent need for rebuilding Ukraine after the conflict with Russia. It explores the challenges and opportunities involved in reconstruction efforts, including funding, economic recovery, and international support. The podcast also considers the potential use of frozen Russian assets and the concerns and consequences of confiscating them. It emphasizes the importance of supporting Ukraine's economy, fighting corruption, and Ukraine's desire for partnership with Europe.

David Marlett, Managing Director of the Brantley Risk & Insurance Center, Appalachian State University, discusses the impact of climate change on home insurance. Topics include rising premiums, companies reducing coverage, and the potential for some areas to become uninsurable. The podcast also explores the interconnectedness of different regions, government disaster aid, and potential solutions to address these risks.

Female representation in politics is important for various reasons, but there is still a lack of female leaders. The podcast explores the benefits of gender equality in politics, such as changing public debate and policy-making, as well as the negative consequences like limited legal rights and high levels of violence. The Women's Power Index is discussed as a tool to measure gender inequality, and the podcast also explores the lack of representation in diplomacy, the impact of the digital world on women's inclusion, and the need for greater attention to gender parity in legislatures.

A small island one hundred miles off the coast of China could be the flashpoint that determines the future of great-power competition. Experts increasingly warn that a Chinese invasion of Taiwan would be globally catastrophic, regardless of its success or if the United States intervenes. How concerned should Americans be?   James Lin (Assistant Professor at the University of Washington ) David Sacks (Fellow for Asia Studies, CFR)   For an episode transcript and show notes, visit us at https://www.cfr.org/podcasts/taiwan-china-and-threat-war