Explainers

In Briefs

Succinct rundowns on the world’s most important developments, produced by CFR’s scholars and editorial team. 

In Brief Filters and Cards

COVID-19
How Are Major Religions Responding to the Coronavirus?
Many of the world’s faithful have altered long-standing religious practices to avoid spreading the new coronavirus.
Oil and Petroleum Products
The Oil Price Shock: Who’s Most Vulnerable in the Coronavirus Slump?
A long dip in oil prices could put several oil-producing states under great strain, but some are better positioned than others to weather the downturn from the coronavirus.
COVID-19
Can the U.S. Emulate Asia’s Coronavirus Response?
As the coronavirus outbreak worsens, the U.S. government should learn from initial responses in Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan.
COVID-19
How Is the Fed Dealing With the Coronavirus Crisis?
The U.S. Federal Reserve is using creative means to counter the economic shock caused by the global coronavirus pandemic, but those measures must be matched by aggressive fiscal action.
Mexico
Mexico’s Women Push Back on Gender-Based Violence
Gender-based killings in Mexico have sparked mass protests, with activists blaming the government for an anemic response.
COVID-19
The Coronavirus Outbreak Could Disrupt the U.S. Drug Supply
U.S. health officials have warned that the coronavirus outbreak could lead to drug shortages. Just how much does the United States rely on pharmaceutical products from China and India?
Afghanistan War
The Riskiness of the U.S. Deal to Leave Afghanistan
The deal signed by U.S. and Taliban officials is dangerously short on levers to prevent a Taliban takeover, but there are still ways Washington can sustain the government in Kabul.
Thailand
A Popular Thai Opposition Party Was Disbanded. What Happens Next?
Thailand could be headed toward unrest after the disbandment of Future Forward Party, an opposition group popular among young people.
Iran
Have the Latest Elections Strengthened Iran’s Hard-Liners?
A sweeping win in parliamentary elections helps Iranian conservatives in a time of mounting tensions with Washington, but record-low turnout signals fading public support for Iran’s hard-liners.
Kenya
What Would a U.S.-Kenya Trade Deal Mean?
The Trump administration hopes that a free trade agreement with Nairobi will be a counterweight to Beijing’s growing role across Africa and a model for bilateral deals with others on the continent.
Americas
Why Can’t Central America Curb Corruption?
Pervasive corruption has long stymied development and fueled emigration from some of Central America’s poorest countries. The recent disbanding of antigraft commissions makes their prospects for reform gloomier.
COVID-19
Coronavirus Outbreak: What Is the U.S. Public Health Response?
The CDC and other U.S. agencies are working to stop the spread of a new coronavirus that originated in China. But public health resources could become stretched if the outbreak worsens.
Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
Trump’s Lopsided Mideast Peace Plan
The long-awaited plan presented by President Donald J. Trump paves the way for broader Israeli annexation of occupied territories, has no real chance of Palestinian support, and risks provoking violence.
Nonproliferation, Arms Control, and Disarmament
New START: The Future of U.S.-Russia Nuclear Arms Control
With this major U.S.-Russia nuclear arms control agreement set to expire next year, Washington should coordinate with Moscow for a New START treaty extension to allow for further negotiations and the ability to maintain U.S. nuclear deterrence.
Mexico
Mexico’s Security Dilemma
Amid a spate of drug cartel attacks, Mexico is considering whether to increase security cooperation with the United States.