text:
International Affairs157
Foreign Policy120
International Relations97
Diplomacy92
Eurasia7
Special Report110
Policy Brief96
Journal Article87
Working Paper74
Commentary and Analysis[remove]46
The Begin-Sadat Centre for Strategic Studies (BESA)6
East-West Center4
Lowy Institute for International Policy4
Rethinking Russia4
The Toynbee Prize Foundation4
Foreign Policy Research Institute3
within 3 Years32
within 10 Years46
You searched for: Content Type Commentary and Analysis Remove constraint Content Type: Commentary and Analysis Publication Year within 25 Years Remove constraint Publication Year: within 25 Years Publication Year within 5 Years Remove constraint Publication Year: within 5 Years Topic Geopolitics Remove constraint Topic: Geopolitics
1. Fateful Collision: NATO's Drive to the East Versus Russia's Sphere of Influence
Author: James Kurth
Content Type: Commentary and Analysis
Institution: Institute for New Economic Thinking (INET)
Abstract: In December 2021, Russia demanded of the United States and NATO that they sign a formal agreement that they would cease their activities to bring certain countries, particularly Ukraine and Georgia, into NATO membership and to place offensive weapons, particularly missile systems, within a broader range of countries within Central and Eastern Europe.1 As news headlines around the world proclaim, the Russians have backed up these demands by deploying 100,000 troops near Russia's border with Ukraine. This ultimatum represents by far the most fundamental and gravest Russian challenge to the way that NATO has conceived of its mission and conducted its activities since the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 and the accompanying end of the Cold War. The actual content of Russia's demands, however, is not at all new. Ever since the first post-Cold War expansion of NATO eastward in 1999 (i.e., the admission to membership of Poland, the Czech Republic, and Hungary), Russia has been clear and consistent in objecting to NATO's expansion to the East as a threat to its vital security interests. They have been especially sensitive to any expansion into the former republics of the Soviet Union. These include not only Ukraine and Georgia, which are the current subjects of dispute, but also the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, which became full members of NATO as early as 2004.
Topic: NATO, Geopolitics, Conflict, Post Cold War
Political Geography: Russia, United States, Ukraine
2. China: Rise or Demise?
Author: John Mueller
Institution: The Cato Institute
Abstract: China, even if it rises, does not present much of a security threat to the United States. Policymakers increasingly view China's rapidly growing wealth as a threat. China currently ranks second, or perhaps even first, in the world in gross domestic product (although 78th in per capita GDP), and the fear is that China will acquire military prowess commensurate with its wealth and feel impelled to carry out undesirable military adventures. However, even if it continues to rise, China does not present much of a security threat to the United States. China does not harbor Hitler‐style ambitions of extensive conquest, and the Chinese government depends on the world economy for development and the consequent acquiescence of the Chinese people. Armed conflict would be extremely—even overwhelmingly—costly to the country and, in particular, to the regime in charge. Indeed, there is a danger of making China into a threat by treating it as such and by engaging in so‐called balancing efforts against it. Rather than rising to anything that could be conceived to be "dominance," China could decline into substantial economic stagnation. It faces many problems, including endemic (and perhaps intractable) corruption, environmental devastation, slowing growth, a rapidly aging population, enormous overproduction, increasing debt, and restive minorities in its west and in Hong Kong. At a time when it should be liberalizing its economy, Xi Jinping's China increasingly restricts speech and privileges control by the antiquated and kleptocratic Communist Party over economic growth. And entrenched elites are well placed to block reform. That said, China's standard of living is now the highest in its history, and it's very easy to envision conditions that are a great deal worse than life under a stable, if increasingly authoritarian, kleptocracy. As a result, the Chinese people may be willing to ride with, and ride out, economic stagnation should that come about—although this might be accompanied by increasing dismay and disgruntlement. In either case—rise or demise—there is little the United States or other countries can or should do to affect China's economically foolish authoritarian drive except to issue declarations of disapproval and to deal more warily. As former ambassador Chas Freeman puts it, "There is no military answer to a grand strategy built on a non‐violent expansion of commerce and navigation." And Chinese leaders have plenty of problems to consume their attention. They scarcely need war or foreign military adventurism to enhance the mix. The problem is not so much that China is a threat but that it is deeply insecure. Policies of threat, balance, sanction, boycott, and critique are more likely to reinforce that condition than change it. The alternative is to wait, and to profit from China's economic size to the degree possible, until someday China feels secure enough to reform itself.
Topic: Government, GDP, Geopolitics, Economic Growth
Political Geography: China, Asia, United States of America
3. Baku Parade Whispers Geopolitical Complexities in the South Caucasus
Author: Rahim Rahimov
Institution: Georgian Foundation for Strategic International Studies -GFSIS
Abstract: Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan attended a military parade in the Azerbaijani capital of Baku on December 10 to celebrate Azerbaijan's victory over Armenia in the war over the Karabakh region that ended with the Russia-brokered armistice on November 9-10. The Russian historian, Andrey Zubov, describes the Baku parade as an occasion "rather to celebrate the birth of a new geopolitical alliance than the victory over Armenia"1 . Following the parade, Russia imposed a ban on tomato imports from Azerbaijan in its flagship manner and Russian peacekeepers attempted to do something around the town of Shusha in Karabakh resembling what they have done in Georgia: "borderization". Azerbaijani state TV, other media outlets and public figures widely and explicitly condemned such behavior of the Russian peacekeepers as a jealous response to the parade demonstration of Armenia's Russian-made weapons and military equipment captured by the Azerbaijani armed forces or destroyed using Turkish-made Bayraktar drones . Erdogan and the Azerbaijani President, Ilham Aliyev, watched Turkish soldiers march alongside with Azerbaijanis on the central streets of Baku to the joy of local residents who took to the streets despite the COVID-19 related restrictions in order to salute them. This scene shows a major Russian weakness vis-àvis Turkey in Azerbaijan. Unlike Moscow, whose perception in Azerbaijan is controversial, Ankara enjoys nation-wide support. Recently leaked Russian secret files reveal that it is much more difficult for Moscow to develop proRussian civil society organizations and soft power instruments in Azerbaijan than even in staunchly pro-Western Georgia.
Topic: Foreign Policy, Geopolitics, Conflict
Political Geography: Russia, Iran, Turkey, France, Georgia, South Caucasus
4. The Regional Security Dynamics of the South Caucasus After the 2020 Karabakh War
Author: Benyamin Poghosyan
Abstract: The 2020 Karabakh war has significantly shifted the geopolitics of the South Caucasus. Armenia suffered a tough defeat while the non-recognized Republic of Artsakh (Republic of Nagorno Karabakh) lost almost 80 percent of its territories. Azerbaijan won a decisive victory and took not only territories outside of the former Nagorno Karabakh Autonomous Region (NKAR) but 30 percent of NKAR itself. The November 10 trilateral statement signed by Armenia, Azerbaijan and Russia not only stopped the war in Karabakh but ushered in a new era in regional geopolitics.1 The key features of the new status quo are the increased role of Russia and Turkey and the significant reduction of Western involvement. However, the South Caucasus is far away from stability and, most probably, volatility will continue. We will seek to analyze the main interests of the key regional and external players and what may play out in a short/mid-term perspective.
Topic: Foreign Policy, War, Geopolitics, Political stability, Conflict
Political Geography: Russia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Nagorno-Karabakh
5. The European Perspective of the Anti-Western Information Warfare
Author: Erekle Iantbelidze
Abstract: The transfer of the international political reality to a new multi-polar prism makes geopolitics, as one of the directions of interdisciplinary education, more important in the current situation. The development of digital and scientific technologies has moved the phenomenon of the balance of power to a new stage and for a number of states and intergovernmental organizations, the term geopolitics has become the flagship of security strategy, cultural domination and democratic processes. In terms of the new "geopolitical commission," the action plan of Ursula von der Leyen rests on two main principles – Europe's climate and digital transition (European Parliament, 2020). Therefore, in the conditions of a war of values, geopolitics and digitalization, technological development has become a super-important component that the European Union is attempting to bring to the forefront as it wrestles with the world's foremost states (China, India, Russia, Turkey). As the EU's top diplomat, Josep Borrell, stated, Europe must not become a playground for other great powers and it must take the role of a geopolitical leader in the world (Barigazzi, 2019). It must also be pointed out that the geopolitical nature of Europe also envisages the development and gradual expansion of its neighborhood policy. That said, the associated partners within the Eastern Partnership (EaP) format (Moldova, Georgia, Ukraine) have bigger ambitions and goals than the development of the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) and the full implementation of the Association Agreement (AA) (European Commission, 2019).
Topic: Science and Technology, European Union, Geopolitics, Free Trade
Political Geography: Europe
6. Blurry Counterterrorism: A Chance for Russia, A Risk for Europe
Author: Miriam Heß
Institution: German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP)
Abstract: The European Union should actively address the problematic use of counterterrorism by non-European states – especially Russia – and make it a permanent aspect in developing counterterrorism strategies and agendas. Failing to address the misuse of counterterrorism sends the wrong signal not only to those with reason to fear geopolitical interference by their countries of origin, but also to states that pursue "anti-terrorist-operations" in the form of abductions and executions abroad.
Topic: European Union, Counter-terrorism, Geopolitics, Risk
Political Geography: Russia, Europe
7. Germany Between a Rock and a Hard Place in China-US Competition
Author: Markus Jaeger
Abstract: The Biden administration has just issued its Interim National Security Strategic Guidance. The guidance document states the need to "build back better at home" and acknowledges that "international economic policies must serve all Americans" – a theme often referred to as "foreign policy for the middle class". While the interim guidance does not preclude cooperation with China in selected policy areas, it is unambiguous in considering China a strategic competitor. The prospect of intensifying China-US geopolitical and (geo)economic competition is bad news for Germany, which has high value trading and investment relationships with both countries.
Topic: Foreign Policy, Economics, National Security, Geopolitics
Political Geography: China, Europe, Asia, Germany, North America, United States of America
8. Hun Sen's Mistake? The Domestic Political Ramifications of His Chinese Shelter
Author: Charles Dunst
Institution: East-West Center
Abstract: Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen's close relationship with the People's Republic of China (PRC) has led scholars and policymakers alike to suggest that Beijing's backing will keep him in power. While Hun Sen himself seems to believe this to be true, his reliance on China is actually enflaming Cambodian discontent to such an extent that his planned patrimonial succession is at risk. Given the fragility of regimes mid-succession, Hun Sen's Chinese shelter is augmenting the potential of his clan's fall. Yet as Hun Sen faces increased domestic opposition, he will only further deepen ties with China in hopes of remaining in power, thereby creating a vicious cycle from which escaping will prove difficult.
Topic: International Relations, Power Politics, Bilateral Relations, Geopolitics
Political Geography: China, Asia, Cambodia, Southeast Asia
9. From Strategic Autonomy to the Internationalization of the Euro: Europe's Challenges and the Impact of the COVID-19 Crisis
Author: Nicola Bilotta, Alissa Siara
Institution: Istituto Affari Internazionali
Abstract: One of the key priorities of the new European Commission is to enhance the EU's geopolitical credentials and "learn to use the language of power", as stated by the incoming EU High Representative Josep Borrell. The EU's ambition is two-fold: to increase the Union's ability to project power and influence at the global level, including through increased integration and coordination among member states, and secondly to enhance the EU's strategic autonomy from the US in the political, military and economic domains. Both objectives, ambitious in the best of circumstances, are today under severe strain by the COVID-19 crisis. Implications will be long-lasting and multidimensional, and for Europe, its impact will have a direct bearing on its ambition for strategic autonomy, touching each of the three pillars outlined above.
Topic: Regional Cooperation, Geopolitics, Economy, Autonomy, Coronavirus
Political Geography: Europe, European Union
10. Russia's Shift from "Greater Europe" to "Greater Asia"
Author: Emil Avdaliani
Institution: The Begin-Sadat Centre for Strategic Studies (BESA)
Abstract: Though analysts tend to portray Russia's foreign policy as truly global (that is, independent of Europe, the US, and China), the country is plainly tilting toward Asia. The Russian political elite does its best to hide this development, but the country is accumulating more interests and freedom to act in Asia than in Europe or anywhere else.
Topic: Foreign Policy, Politics, Geopolitics, Global Security
Political Geography: Russia, Europe, Eurasia, Asia
11. Erdoğan Battles on Multiple Fronts in Risky Regional Power Bid
Author: James M Dorsey
Abstract: Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is at odds with just about everybody. He is on opposite sides with Russia in Syria as well as Libya and is trying the patience of his US and European allies. Turkey and Russia are testing the limits of what was always at best an opportunistic, fragile partnership aimed at capitalizing on a seemingly diminishing US interest in the Middle East, already evident under President Barack Obama and continuing under Donald Trump, who is haphazardly redefining what he sees as America's national interests.
Topic: Security, Geopolitics, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan
Political Geography: Russia, Turkey, Middle East, Libya, Syria
12. The Battle for Libya: The UAE Calls the Shots
Abstract: Last week's inauguration of a new Egyptian military base on the Red Sea was heavy with the symbolism of the rivalries shaping the future of the Middle East as well as north and east Africa.
Topic: Treaties and Agreements, United Nations, Geopolitics, Conflict
Political Geography: Africa, Middle East, Libya, United Arab Emirates, Red Sea
13. Toynbee Coronavirus Series: Dominic Sachsenmaier on China, geopolitics, and global history post-COVID-19
Author: Dominic Sachsenmaier
Institution: The Toynbee Prize Foundation
Abstract: Living through historically unprecedented times has strengthened the Toynbee Prize Foundation's commitment to thinking globally about history and to representing that perspective in the public sphere. In this multimedia series on the covid-19 pandemic, we will be bringing global history to bear in thinking through the raging coronavirus and the range of social, intellectual, economic, political, and scientific crises triggered and aggravated by it. Dominic Sachsenmaier, the President of the Toynbee Prize Foundation, is Chair Professor of Modern China with a Special Emphasis on Global Historical Perspectives in the Department of East Asian Studies at the University of Göttingen. His expertise centers on global and transnational Chinese history, with a focus on Chinese concepts of society and multiple modernities, among other topics. He is co-editor of the Columbia University Press book series "Columbia Studies in International and Global History" and an elected member of the European Academy of Sciences and Arts.
Topic: Health, International Affairs, Geopolitics, Global Focus, Coronavirus, Pandemic, COVID-19
Political Geography: China, Asia, Global Focus
14. Toynbee Coronavirus Series: Erez Manela on the WHO, smallpox eradication, and the need for renewed internationalism
Author: Erez Manela
Abstract: Living through historically unprecedented times has strengthened the Toynbee Prize Foundation's commitment to thinking globally about history and to representing that perspective in the public sphere. In this multimedia series on the covid-19 pandemic, we will be bringing global history to bear in thinking through the raging coronavirus and the range of social, intellectual, economic, political, and scientific crises triggered and aggravated by it. Erez Manela researches international society and the modern international order. Recently he has written about smallpox and the globalization of development, illuminating the power structures and international infrastructure that underwrote the World Health Organization's (WHO) smallpox eradication program from 1965 to 1980. Professor of History at Harvard University, Prof. Manela teaches the history of the United States in the world and modern international history, and is the Director of Graduate Programs at the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs at Harvard and co-chair of the Harvard International and Global History seminar. He co-edits the Cambridge University book series 'Global and International History.'
Topic: Health, World Health Organization, Geopolitics, Public Health, Coronavirus, Pandemic, COVID-19
15. Toynbee Coronavirus Series—Global History Forum: Jeremy Adelman, Or Rosenboim, Jamie Martin, Cindy Ewing, and Akita Shigeru
Author: Jeremy Adelman, Or Rosenboim, Jamie Martin, Cindy Ewing, Akita Shigeru
Abstract: Living through historically unprecedented times has strengthened the Toynbee Prize Foundation's commitment to thinking globally about history and to representing that perspective in the public sphere. In this multimedia series on the COVID-19 pandemic, we will be bringing global history to bear in thinking through the raging coronavirus and the range of social, intellectual, economic, political, and scientific crises triggered and aggravated by it.
Topic: Geopolitics, Coronavirus, Pandemic, COVID-19
16. Toynbee Coronavirus Series—Global Historians Analyze the Pandemic: Glenda Sluga, Jie-Hyun Lim, Lauren Benton, and Hsiung Ping-chen
Author: Glenda Sluga, Jie-Hyun Lim, Lauren Benton, Hsiung Ping-chen
Topic: History, Geopolitics, Coronavirus, Pandemic, COVID-19
17. Erdoğan's "Mini Empire" in Libya and Syria
Author: Soner Cagaptay
Institution: Moshe Dayan Center for Middle Eastern and African Studies
Abstract: In this issue of Turkeyscope Dr. Soner Cagaptay analyzes the evolution of Turkey's foreign policy with respect to both Syria and Libya.
Topic: Foreign Policy, Bilateral Relations, Geopolitics, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan
Political Geography: Russia, Turkey, Middle East, Libya, North Africa, Syria
18. In search of a European Russia strategy
Author: Tony van der Togt
Institution: Clingendael Netherlands Institute of International Relations
Abstract: A global multilateral rules-based order, supported by a pro-active and interventionist United States, is gradually being replaced by a more fragmented world, in which geopolitics and geo-economics are becoming the dominant factors and universal rules, norms, and values are increasingly questioned. For the EU such developments are particularly challenging, as it has long perceived itself as a post-Westphalian soft power, mainly projecting its norms and values in its relations with both its direct neighbors and the world at large. A more isolationist US, a more assertive Russia, and the growing global influence of China have raised questions about the EU's place and role in the world, which become even more pertinent after Brexit. Therefore, Commission President Von der Leyen intends to lead a "geopolitical Commission" and we are hearing calls for European strategic autonomy or even strategic sovereignty.
Topic: International Relations, European Union, Geopolitics, Multilateralism
19. China is Not Conducting Debt Trap Diplomacy in the Pacific--At Least Not Yet
Author: Jonathan Pryke
Abstract: In an atmosphere of heightened geostrategic competition, China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has raised questions about the risk of debt problems in less-developed countries. Such risks are especially worrying for the small and fragile economies of the Pacific. A close look at the evidence suggests that China has not been engaged in debt-trap diplomacy in the Pacific, at least not so far. Nonetheless, if future Chinese lending continues on a business-as-usual basis, serious problems of debt sustainability will arise, and concerns about quality and corruption are valid.There have been recent signs that both China and Pacific Island governments recognize the need for reform. China needs to adopt formal lending rules similar to those of the multilateral development banks, providing more favorable terms to countries at greater risk of debt distress. Alternative approaches might include replacing or partially replacing EXIM loans with the interest-free loans and grants that the Chinese Ministry of Commerce already provides.
Topic: Debt, Development, Diplomacy, Geopolitics, Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
Political Geography: China, Asia, Asia-Pacific
20. "Coronationalism" vs a geopolitical Europe? EU external solidarity at the time of Covid-19
Author: Christian Kvorning Lassen
Institution: Europeum Institute for European Policy
Abstract: Christian Kvorning Lassen from EUROPEUM Institute for European Policy together with Jan Kovář from Institute of International Relations Prague wrote a commentary "Czechia: This Covid-19 environment is not conducive to external solidarity" for the EPIN Report publication, concerned with EU external solidarity at the time of Covid-19. EU member states have been discussing how to collectively deal with the socioeconomic repercussions of the Covid-19 pandemic. As major debates continue to take place about internal solidarity, the question arises how the EU and its member states wish to support third countries, outside the EU, in tackling their health and economic emergencies. On the one and, the EU wishes to become a geopolitical power, which requires that the Union and its member states step up their role and support on the global scene. On the other hand, there are signs of 'coronationalism' with some national political parties questioning EU external aid at a time when member states themselves are struggling. Based on expert contributions from a representative cross-section of thirteen member states, this report delves into the question of whether and how external solidarity has been part of the political or public debates in Covid-struck Europe. It finds that, for now, neither 'coronationalist' nor geopolitical ambitions dominate the relatively little politicized debates about international cooperation and development aid.
Topic: Regional Cooperation, Foreign Aid, European Union, Geopolitics, Economy, Coronavirus, COVID-19
21. Russia's Struggle to Gain Influence in Southeast Asia
Author: Bennett Murray
Institution: Foreign Policy Research Institute
Abstract: As the United States and People's Republic of China jostle for influence among member-states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Russian Federation has also declared the bloc a priority. Southeast Asian nations, in turn, would like third powers to counterbalance Beijing and Washington in the region. However, Russia has not made a huge impression in the bloc since its first summit with ASEAN in 2005. Economic success has been mostly limited to bilateral trade centered around arms sales, while security partnerships have not been forthcoming. Part of the problem is that Russia lacks historic ties in its former Cold War rivals, which are also ASEAN's largest economic powerhouses, to lean on. More crucially, Southeast Asian nations perceive Moscow as deferential to Beijing's geopolitical ambitions in the region.
Topic: International Trade and Finance, Geopolitics, Soft Power, Economic Diplomacy
Political Geography: Russia, Eurasia, Asia, Southeast Asia
22. The Geopolitics of Post-Brexit Britain
Author: Geoffrey Sloan
Abstract: This essay draws on the author's previous work, specifically: The Geopolitics of Anglo-Irish Relations in the 20th Century. The greatest failure of the European referendum campaign in 2016, which can be attributed to both sides, was the inability to articulate an understanding of Britain's geopolitical relationship to Europe. By geopolitics, I do not mean its current usage: interpreted merely as a synonym for international strategic rivalry. I refer, instead, to classical geopolitics, which is a confluence of three subjects: geography, history, and strategy. It draws attention to certain geographical patterns of political history. It fuses spatial relationships and historical causation. It can produce explanations that suggest the contemporary and future political relevance of various geographical configurations.
Topic: Foreign Policy, Geopolitics, Brexit
Political Geography: Britain, Europe
23. Energetics in Kremlin's geopolitics
Author: Makysm Bielawski
Institution: Razumkov Centre
Abstract: Stalin proposed to use energy resources in order to solve geopolitical problems, leveling the needs of the state, immediately after the end of World War II. Hegemony above everything. For the first time such political tools of influence was tested in 1948, despite the acute shortage in domestic market, through supplying the oil and oil products to Finland and Bulgaria. Along with energy supplies, Finland made concessions to the Soviet Union and undertook to renounce NATO membership and remain a de jure non-aligned state.
Topic: Foreign Policy, Geopolitics, History
Political Geography: Russia, Ukraine, Eastern Europe
24. Next Steps for US-Japan Collaboration on Energy Infrastructure
Author: Courtney Weatherby
Abstract: China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has re-centered discussion of geopolitical competition in Asia around infrastructure. Responding both to BRI and the region's well-known infrastructure gap, the United States has launched efforts to unlock US private investment for infrastructure. Japan's engagements in the region emphasize high-quality infrastructure and best practices (an implicit criticism of China's sometimes less rigorous standards). The foreign policy approaches of the United States and Japan dovetail nicely and have led to many new initiatives and institutional partnerships, as well as the quality-focused Blue Dot Network. But despite the two countries' intentions to work collaboratively, their efforts have been held back by differences in organizational practices, the lengthy overhaul of US financing, and a lack of immediate movement from US-Japan consortia. For now, a less ambitious approach of closely coordinating technical assistance and conditional funding on proposed projects may serve as a model for closer US-Japan collaboration as efforts mature.
Topic: Foreign Policy, Energy Policy, Bilateral Relations, Infrastructure, Geopolitics, Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Renewable Energy, Strategic Competition
Political Geography: Japan, China, Asia, United States of America
25. Ocean of Debt? Belt and Road and Debt Diplomacy in the Pacific
Author: Roland Rajah, Alexandre Dayant, Jonathan Pryke
Institution: Lowy Institute for International Policy
Abstract: China has not been engaged in debt trap diplomacy — at least not yet. China has not been the primary driver behind rising debt risks in the Pacific, although a continuation of business as usual would risk future debt problems in several countries. There is scope for a new Australian infrastructure financing facility to provide loans to the Pacific without causing debt problems, particularly as it has adopted key sustainable lending rules. Pacific nations have an opportunity to obtain more favourable financing from official development partners but care must be taken to avoid overly geopolitical aid.
Topic: Debt, Development, Infrastructure, Geopolitics, Soft Power, Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
Political Geography: China, Australia, Asia-Pacific
26. Once More With Feeling: Russia and the Asia-Pacific
Author: Bobo Lo
Abstract: The rise of Asia is the central challenge of Vladimir Putin's foreign policy, calling into question long-standing assumptions about Russia's place in the world. Moscow is now more committed to engagement with the Asia-Pacific than it has ever been. This reflects belated recognition of the region's critical importance in global affairs. Russia's ambition to become a major player in the Asia-Pacific faces considerable hurdles. Overcoming them will depend on larger changes in its foreign policy mindset — an uncertain prospect at best.
Topic: Foreign Policy, Geopolitics, Economy, Vladimir Putin
Political Geography: Russia, Asia-Pacific
27. The Phenomenon of "Global Russia"
Abstract: As Russia increases its geopolitical involvement across the globe, the concept of "Global Russia" has been gradually taking hold. Though Russia is inherently weak, it is likely that Moscow will continue its global initiatives throughout the 2020s. Only by the end of that decade and into the next is there likely to be a gradual decline in Russia's adventurism abroad.
Topic: International Affairs, Geopolitics, Grand Strategy, Elites
Political Geography: Russia, Eurasia, Global Focus
28. Kremlin Coups Turned Democratic Revolutions
Author: Jiri Valenta
Abstract: The revolution that took place in the Czech Republic thirty years ago was not just the work of Vaclav Havel and his Charter 77 followers. The spark was a KGB coup directed by General Secretary Mikhail Gorbachev. A Kremlin coup also helped spur revolutionary change in Germany. The late 1980s saw unprecedented power struggles within the Soviet elite and Politburo under Gorbachev.
Topic: History, Geopolitics, Coup, Revolution
Political Geography: Russia, Europe, Czech Republic
29. Straightening Out Russian Foreign Policy
Abstract: Russian foreign policy since the mid-2000s tends to be perceived in contradictory terms: as either a negative for Russia or the product of a grand strategic vision on the part of the Russian leadership. It is also often falsely perceived as representing a break with the past. Moscow's foreign policy moves need to be viewed with a balanced perspective and should be placed in their historical context.
Topic: Foreign Policy, History, Geopolitics, Grand Strategy
Political Geography: Russia, Eurasia
30. China: Economy, Energy and the Middle East
Author: Paul Rivlin
Abstract: Paul Rivlin analyzes the economic background of China's involvement in the Middle East. Several key questions arise with respect to China's economic involvement in the Middle East: What are China's interests in the Middle East? How far are they dominated by its energy needs? How are they affected by its relations with the United States?
Topic: Foreign Policy, Energy Policy, Foreign Direct Investment, Geopolitics, Economy
Political Geography: China, Middle East
31. The Oil Market Swings: Shale and Geo-politics
Abstract: Paul Rivlin analyzes possible future directions for the global oil market, against the backdrop of ongoing geopolitical developments in the Middle East and elsewhere.
Topic: Development, Energy Policy, Oil, Global Markets, Geopolitics
Political Geography: Middle East
32. Strengthening US Relations with ASEAN: A Critical Element of the US Indo-Pacific Strategy
Abstract: With a population of 650 million and an annual GDP of $2.8 trillion, ASEAN is a key component of the US Indo-Pacific Strategy. Two visitors to the East-West Center, Kavi Chongkittavorn and Anu Anwar, emphasized that the United States needs to take several steps to strengthen working relations with ASEAN. Priorities for the Trump administration include: Attend the annual ASEAN-sponsored East Asia Summit; Establish personal rapport with ASEAN leaders; Participate actively in all ASEAN-led mechanisms, including the ASEAN Regional Forum, the ASEAN Defense Ministerial Meeting Plus, and the Lower Mekong Initiative; Appoint an American envoy to ASEAN, a position that has been vacant for more than 30 months; Maintain the ASEAN-focused programs and activities initiated under previous US administrations; Expand educational, cultural, and youth programs; Strengthen the US-ASEAN security commitment, in particular maritime and cyber security.
Topic: International Relations, Geopolitics, Donald Trump, ASEAN
Political Geography: North America, Asia-Pacific, United States of America, Indo-Pacific
33. Could Trump Deliver Iran an Oil Windfall?
Author: Richard Nephew
Institution: Center on Global Energy Policy (CGEP), Columbia University
Abstract: The president's recent statement that OPEC should reduce their prices may merely be an attempt to assign blame for rising gasoline prices in the midst of the US driving season or an even more cynical attempt to rally his political base in opposition to globalism. Or, it may have something to do with the president's own decision to create a crisis with Iran. While attention is duly paid to how much Americans have to pay at the pump, a more subtle and complicated story will soon play out with respect to Iran and the reapplication of US sanctions ordered by Trump on May 8, 2018. In fact, unless oil prices are contained, the primary result of the president's action may be to ensure that Iran profits from the oil market risks that sanctions have created.
Topic: Energy Policy, Geopolitics, Global Political Economy
Political Geography: America, Iran, Global Focus
34. The United States, China, and Southeast Asia: Can ASEAN Find a New Strategic Equilibrium?
Author: Kevin Rudd
Institution: Asia Society
Abstract: U.S.-China relations have now entered into a new structural phase. Officially, the Americans describe this as a change from 40 years of "strategic engagement" to a new period of "strategic competition." The precise definition of strategic competition, as an operational rather than a declaratory strategy, has yet to fully emerge. But we would be foolish not to recognize that there has been a fundamental systemic shift in U.S. sentiment toward China
Topic: Diplomacy, International Affairs, Geopolitics
Political Geography: China
35. Safeguarding Australia's Security Interests Through Closer Pacific Ties
Author: Greg Colton
Abstract: Greater Australian engagement in the Pacific Islands region is needed if Canberra wants to ensure regional stability and underpin Australia's national security. Inconsistent engagement by Australia, the United States, France and New Zealand in the Pacific Islands region has created space that non-traditional powers have exploited to engage with sovereign Pacific Island states. There is an increasing risk of geostrategic competition in the region, particularly with the growing influence of China and the economic leverage it holds over some indebted Pacific Island nations. The Australian Government should pursue a deliberate strategy of forging stronger links with its traditional partners in the region, and more equitable partnerships with its Pacific Island neighbours, if it is to underpin regional stability and strengthen Australia's national security.
Topic: International Relations, National Security, Regional Cooperation, Geopolitics, Economy
Political Geography: China, France, Australia, Asia-Pacific, United States of America
36. The "Moving Geography": Why are Scandinavian countries increasingly interested in the Middle East?
Institution: Future for Advanced Research and Studies (FARAS)
Abstract: The dynamics of the Middle East region have gained special attention from the three Scandinavian countries (Norway, Sweden and Denmark) over the past years. There are numerous indicators for this rising level of interest. The most prominent of which are the establishment of institutes for dialogue and cooperation, launching programs for the Danish-Arab partnership, opening Middle East studies center in a Swedish university, and hosting a new round of dialogue for the parties to the Yemeni conflict. Other indicators include providing funds to support future local elections in Libya, supporting non-governmental organizations aimed at assisting internal displaced persons and refugees through local integration or resettlement, and increasing financial incentives for refugees, who return to their home countries. There are various motives behind the Scandinavian interest in the region, including curbing refugee flows, preventing terrorist attacks, containing the threat of extremism, and confronting the Iranian threat.
Topic: International Relations, Foreign Policy, Geopolitics, Neutrality
Political Geography: Middle East, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Scandinavia
37. The "Mobile Militia": Will Iran Replicate the Hezbollah Model in Afghanistan?
Abstract: The prospect of Iran replicating the Lebanese Hezbollah model in other countries can no longer be ruled out, amid the pressure of the new sanctions imposed on Tehran in the wake of the US withdrawal from the nuclear deal on May 8, 2018. One of the objectives that Tehran may seek to achieve through such move is to exploit its regional influence to reduce the US pressure and, perhaps at a later stage, bolster its negotiating position versus Washington in any potential new negotiations. However, there are other objectives that Iran may try to achieve, if it decides to press ahead with this option, such as creating loyal military arms in Afghanistan. Hence, Iran will be able to possess instruments to influence the government decisions in the stage leading up to a settlement of the Afghan crisis, as well as enhance its prospects of participating in the efforts to reach such a settlement.
Topic: Non State Actors, Geopolitics, Hezbollah, Militias
Political Geography: Afghanistan, Iran, South Asia, Middle East
38. Helsinki's Interests: Why Does Finland Show Interest in the Middle East?
Abstract: The recent years have witnessed a growing interest from Helsinki in the transformations and interactions of the Middle East, as evident in the inauguration of academic institutes in the region, visits by diplomatic and parliamentary delegations, activities with research centers, proposals for the resolution of conflicts between political parties, meetings between joint business councils and representatives of chambers of commerce and enhancing the cooperation with Arab intelligence agencies. The Finnish government has several objectives within this calculus.
Topic: Geopolitics, Investment, Currency
Political Geography: Europe, Middle East, Finland, Libya, North Africa, Syria
39. Israel and China Take a Leap Forward—but to Where?
Author: Arthur Herman
Institution: Hudson Institute
Abstract: There is certainly no denying that, in terms of trade and investment alone, the burgeoning economic partnership between Israel and China has at least the potential of transforming not only Israel itself but also Israel's position vis-à-vis the rest of the Middle East—and most notably vis-à-vis Iran, which happens to be Beijing's other key partner in the region. Inevitably, it could also have an impact on Israel's relations with the United States. But is this a marriage made in heaven? Or is it something else? Weighing the answer to that question involves probing beneath the two countries' currently successful dynamic of trade and commercial transactions to their respective geopolitical agendas. When it comes to Israel, the acknowledged junior partner, it also requires examining whether and how the relationship with China could become a dependency. Such a change might please Beijing, but it would impose on Israeli national security a new kind of vulnerability, one very different from the challenges it has faced successfully in the past.
Topic: Diplomacy, National Security, Bilateral Relations, Partnerships, Geopolitics, Economy
Political Geography: China, Middle East, Israel, Asia
40. Britain Expels Russian Diplomats for Keeping Geopolitical Status
Author: Wu Fei
Institution: Rethinking Russia
Abstract: UK has far-reaching strategic objectives to expel Russian diplomats for espionage. It has been aggressive to Russia for fear of a huge fall in its geopolitical status. Britain issued an ultimatum to the Russia after Skripal, the former Russian double agent, and his daughter Yulia were found poisoned and unconscious in Britain on 12 March. With no response from Russia, the Britain Prime Minister Theresa immediately announced that they will expel 23 Russian diplomats and command their departure in a week after report to Congress. Russia just indicates that they will take the same move as well.
Topic: Diplomacy, Intelligence, Geopolitics, Soviet Union
Political Geography: Russia, United Kingdom, Europe, France
41. Endless Endgame: Whither Russia-West Confrontation?
Author: Elkhan Nuriyev
Abstract: There are so many global threats impacting the future of the Earth but Western democracies fear only one person – Vladimir Putin. That's because on almost all geopolitical fronts of the emerging multipolar world, Russian President is deftly striking a blow against the collective challenge mounted by the West. It is thus no surprise that the West's endless dread of Russia's military power has made Putin the world's most powerful man. What's happening in West-Russia relations right now is not a new Cold War. It is not even a renewed East-West divide. It is rather an incredibly high-stakes geopolitical grand game fueled by decades of long-time mutual distrust and competing great power interests.
Topic: International Relations, Geopolitics, Strategic Competition, Multipolarity
42. Towards Greater Eurasian security architecture
Author: Daria Kazarinova
Abstract: t the end of the second decade of the 21st century, problems of global security have become the main issues on the agenda of all regions of the world. Russia's relations with the West have already entered the stage of the so-called new Cold War "with the elements of arms race, remilitarization and the split of the European continent, under the severance of political and economic contacts between the leaders of rival countries and the degradation of diplomacy".
Topic: Security, Foreign Policy, Diplomacy, Geopolitics, Economy
Political Geography: Russia, Europe, Eurasia
43. Making sense of Europe's Southern Neighbourhood: Main Geopolitical and Security Parameters
Author: Luis Simón, Vivien Pertusot
Institution: Elcano Royal Institute
Abstract: Europe's southern neighbourhood is a diverse but interlinked geopolitical ensemble, whose specificities need to be carefully assessed before Europeans devise dedicated security strategies, divide responsibilities and make policy decisions. This exercise in geopolitical scoping seeks to make sense of the main security challenges present in Europe's broader European neighbourhood, a space encompassing areas as diverse as the Gulf of Guinea, the Sahel, North Africa, the Levant and the Persian Gulf. It identifies (some of) the main sub-regions that make up the 'South', offers an overview of the threat environment in each of them and identifies relevant differences as well as common themes. In doing so we aim to provide a conceptual referent for further policy research on the security of Europe's 'South', and to help inform future strategic and policy discussions within the EU, NATO and their Member States.
Topic: International Security, International Affairs, Geopolitics
Political Geography: Europe, Global Focus
44. Birds of a Feather: As Viktor Orbán's Cronies Unload on President Trump, Orbán Sidles Up to President Putin
Author: John R. Haines
Abstract: The Hungarian proverb Madarat tolláról, embert barátjáról translates roughly as "You can tell a bird by its feathers, and a person by his friends." If so, it says much about Hungarian President Viktor Orbán. Russian President Vladimir Putin was asked during a 12 April interview with Russia's MIR television and radio network whether "relations deteriorated with Trump in office from what they were under his predecessor?" He answered, "We could say that at the working level, the degree of trust has dropped, especially in the military area. It has not improved and has probably worsened."[1] Mr. Putin premised this appraisal with an extended dissemble about "several versions" about "the chemical attack in Syria's Idlib province, which led to the US air strike on a Syrian air base:"
Topic: International Cooperation, International Affairs, Geopolitics
Political Geography: Russia, Hungary
45. Changing Geopolitical Dynamics for Papua New Guinea
Author: Jenny Hayward- Jones
Abstract: The new O'Neill government faces a rapidly changing external environment as it struggles to manage a significant domestic economic downturn and unprecedented pressures on the national budget. Australia remains Papua New Guinea's closest foreign partner; by far its largest bilateral aid partner, trading partner and foreign investor, but its influence is diminishing as that of other actors is growing. China is an increasingly important player - as a trade partner, investor in infrastructure and source of foreign loans, as well as in the small to medium business sector. Relations with other Asian nations are expanding. Large foreign companies are exerting more influence on government policy than most nation state development and trade partners of Papua New Guinea can hope to exercise. These relationships are likely to come into sharper focus over the next year, as the PNG government prepares to host APEC in 2018. It is not clear that the new PNG government has the capacity to pursue the national interest abroad while it is preoccupied with a complex set of challenges at home.
Topic: Government, Bilateral Relations, Geopolitics, Development Aid
Political Geography: China, Australia, AustralAsia, Papua New Guinea
46. Britain's Social Media Woes
Author: Emil Pevtsov
Abstract: Social media and especially microblogging are trending buzzwords in the public diplomacy scene. Disproportionate attention is paid to individual posts and trends on social media by the mainstream media. The best case are the tweets of Donald Trump, the president of the USA. They are reported on and analysed daily with unparalleled ferocity, with some outlets meticulously collecting all of the President's social media comments. It has come to a point at which discussing social media is beating an already beaten up dead horse. Nevertheless, this weekend's latest news requires comment and policy recommendation.
Topic: Diplomacy, Geopolitics, Social Media
Political Geography: Britain, Russia, Eurasia


Although great swimming reptiles resemble the dinosaurs and are often discussed alongside them, they are not true dinosaurs (which are land-dwelling). Plesiosaurs grew to a size of 14 m (46 ft) and apparently used their flippers to "fly" through the water like a penguin. Although we have no absolute confirmation that plesiosaurs remain alive, enough evidence exists to suggest that some of these creatures (or similar sea monsters) still lurk in very deep lakes and in the sea!


text:
The Shatura Power Station (, or GRES-5 locally) is one of the oldest power stations in Russia. The facility is located in Shatura, Moscow Oblast, and generates power by utilizing two 210 MW units, three 200 MW units, and one 80 MW unit, for a total capacity of 1.1 GW. Built in 1925, the power station initially used peat as its fuel source. Later on, the power plant has been diversified into multifuel. In 2010, a new combined cycle block of 400 MW was installed. The 80 and 400 MW blocks can not work on peat.

Balance of fuel
In 2005 the fuel use was:
 Natural gas: 78%
 Peat: 11.5%
 Fuel oil: 6.8%
 Coal: 3.7%

See also

 List of fuel oil power stations
 List of largest power stations in the world
 List of power stations in Russia

References

Natural gas-fired power stations in Russia
Coal-fired power stations in Russia
Oil-fired power stations in Russia
Peat-fired power stations in Russia
Buildings and structures in Moscow Oblast
Power stations built in the Soviet Union
1925 establishments in the Soviet Union

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


A pending sale can unsettle your team and, if it gets out in the market, it can cause difficulty with clients or suppliers.
We have worked with clients who have announced the sales process to staff prior to launching for sale. Alternatively, in many cases we've advised clients not to inform their staff of the pending sale until there was a binding contract.
How we advise in this area really comes down to the individual circumstances of the business.
A big part of most businesses is its people, so your key people and teams can be very valuable in the sales process.
Sometimes we work with clients to engage their key staff ahead of the sales process, to let them know it's happening and give them the opportunity to work with the vendor to ensure a successful succession process, sale and transfer.
There are all sorts of recommendations and advice we can offer to share the sale message in a positive way and potentially put in place mechanisms to recognise senior team members' contributions through the sale and transition process.
At other times, we would argue not to disclose a potential sale to the staff or the market until you have a binding offer.
This may be because there are concerns news of a sale could prompt competitors to target your business' clients in an aggressive or unwanted way.
There may also be uncertainty about the likely success of the sale process and so, until there is greater clarity about the interest level, news of a sale to internal staff may be considered premature.
As business advisors in facilitating a sale process, we go to the nth degree in terms of confidentiality in the market. We realise that disclosing the fact a business is for sale can be detrimental to its operations.
But sometimes information does get out and, if it gets back to employees, it can be quite negative and unsettling.
Deciding when to tell staff you're selling is definitely one of those situations where an experienced advisor can be a great support.
As I said earlier, it's an important issue that can impact value and, obviously, the lives of the individuals who make up your team and who are so important to the value of your business going forward.
If you would like advice about any aspect of selling your business, contact the team at JPAbusiness on 02 6360 0360 (Orange) or 02 9893 1803 (Parramatta) for a confidential, obligation-free discussion.


Doesn't get any better than that! HOT!
Just be careful where you get your tweed from - a few places sell tweed tolex which isn't the same as proper tweed. This is from mojotone, and delivery was more than the actual tweed, but it was worth it. I bought enough to do at least another 3 or 4 cabs etc. So, if you're after something in tweed, suits you sir!
What sort of glue to you use for the tolex?
I'm using a water based contact adhesive - selleys. Works great with Tweed, not as brilliant on tolex for some weird reason.
Bg wrote: I'm using a water based contact adhesive - selleys. Works great with Tweed, not as brilliant on tolex for some weird reason.
Tweed absorbs water, tolex repels water?
By the time its dried out for glueing, there is no water left. It works well on tolex but its fantastic with tweed!
Frickin' getting all excited - can't wait to see the final result!
I've not been lazy today, just haven't taken many photos.
Mikes tweed deluxe now has a baffle, as its a commission I got the router out and did the cut out nicely - he's dropping off the chassis and speaker tomorrow so I can do a final fit. Best to make sure everything lines up I'll take a template off the Jensen (the 12"s they do have two different PCD's which is somewhat annoying.) Then I'll do the final drill and staple the cloth onto the baffle.
It now has a top back panel and the shellac coats are finished. I tidied up all the joins in the tweed too.
Bens reverb cab now has another baffle covering as I managed to melt the first in one spot, with the heat gun when tightening it. Damn it - I reckon a wet tea towel over the grille cloth then heat gun may be a safety blanket - I'll do some testing. 2nd one is perfect.
My Ampeg svt 200 is now out of its stupidly heavy shell (pics taken) and I will fit it into a 12mm ply, finger jointed shell. I have ampeg tolex too. The Power TX on this is HUGE.
Started cutting out 18mm ply for a Mesa style 2x12 cab. Looking forward to the end result of this!


Copy-editing, which means reading your essay for content and style, checking that you have expressed yourself as clearly as you can. When you are copy-editing you should try to identify superfluous words and clumsy expressions. This will help make your essay flow better and will also help you with that perennial student problem: keeping within the word count.
Proof-reading, which means you are reading your essay for grammar, punctuation and presentation, checking for spelling mistakes, sentences that suddenly stop in the middle and paragraphs that are too long or too short. You should also check that your essay is properly formatted according to departmental requirements. Are the titles of books and articles in the right form e.g. italicised or underlined or in inverted commas? Is your bibliography or reference list in the right form? Have you followed the correct referencing system for your subject?
criticized for the same reasons? Check your new essay and fix the relevant areas.
Before I became a full-time writer I worked in industry buying print and printed packaging. An important part of the process was checking proofs against the original artwork. When I was relatively new to the job, a senior colleague told me the best way to check for errors was to read the text upside down and back to front.
This sounds extreme but all my colleague was telling me to do was stand back from the text. The minute we start to read a sentence we start to get involved in the meaning of the words. When we are editing, we need to pay as much attention to possible errors.


Wall art thanks JEMB supporters in two languages.
Elementary school student Aleen Cohen works through a Hebrew text.
And so JEMB – Jewish Education Myrtle Beach – was launched in 2015. A departure from the private school model in which parents shoulder the burden of paying for their children's education, JEMB offers every child in the community free Jewish education.
To finance free tuition at the day school, each household in the Jewish community, whether they have five children in the school, one, or none – whether they are parents or grandparents of alumni, or have no children at all – is asked to become a JEMB Member for $1,000. Seventy families, representing nearly 80 percent of the families in the community, have stepped up. Business owners were asked for $5,000.
This is great PR for Myrtle Beach but it does not seem like a model that can be replicated across to many other communities. $70,000 would not go very far in many schools and then you have a separate fund to cover salaries. The community is not truly paying the cost of the operation but a small percentage of the entire operation with major donors or Chabad covering the rest.
While I agree this may be difficult to replicate, the key number is not $70,000 but rather that approx. 80% of the community's families have bought in. That's impressive, even in a small community.
I agree with Casey. It would be helpful to know the annual budget (total cost) to run this school. In most communities, $70,000 would only cover, for example, a portion of one school administrator's salary/benefits. Then there is the rest of the staff, supplies, textbooks, computers, a building, and more.
We have a real dilemma on our hands across all denominations of Judaism in this country (USA). Younger people, especially, but not exclusively, expect Jewish communal experiences (worship, study, education, cultural) to be available to them for free. And they are not particularly interested in helping to pay the bills, even if they have the means to do so.
EJP-please facilitate someone hosting a facebook live or zoom webinar with this day school's leaders sharing more in depth how this works. PRIZMAH leaders reading this – perhaps you could be hosting this conversation. Kol Hakavod to the thinkers who are making this innovation happen. Let us know more!
We don't have the bandwidth at eJP. Perhaps you should reach out to Jedlab.


text:
Q: Is there any way to specify an offset for a cell in a named range within a formula? Suppose I've created these named ranges: Apples = "A1:A3", Pears = "B1:B3"
Then putting the formula "=Apples + Pears" in cell C3 is the same as "=A3 + B3"
Is there some way to specify an offset in the "=Apples + Pears" formula so that cell C3 refers to "=A3 + B2" instead?
In other words, how would an offset for "Pears" be specified so that it refers to B2 instead of B3?
Thanks in advance for any help!
Edit: I would like the formula to be relative, so that if I copied it to cell C2 it would refer to "=A3 + B1"

A: The OFFSET function will do the trick to move from cell B3 one cell up:
For numbers use the following function (e.g. number 3):

=A3+OFFSET(INDIRECT(ADDRESS(MATCH(3,B:B,0),2)),-1,0)

And for strings use this function:

=A3&OFFSET(INDIRECT(ADDRESS(MATCH("Pears",B:B,0),2)),-1,0)

A: Use the INDEX function to specify a cell within a range, named or conventional.
=index(apples, 3, 1) + index(pears, 2, 1)

A: You can use the ROW() function of the current cell to get an index that is automatically updated when you copy the formula. This formula goes into C3, then when you drag it up, it automatically adjusts the index for Pears.
=INDEX(Apples,3,1)+INDEX(Pears,ROW(C3)-1,1)

Note that if your real data doesn't start in row 2, you'll need to subtract the additional amount from the row function to allow for the additional rows.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
'Madam Secretary' Lectures Christians: 'Hard to Claim You Love the Creator, If You're Ignoring' Global Warming
By Lindsay Kornick | March 18, 2019 12:27 AM EDT
Like any good liberal disciple, CBS's Madam Secretary is back preaching about the fire and brimstone of climate change during Lent. The metaphor becomes more apt when the show literally goes against religious believers who dare question the will of scientists and fear-mongering politicians. After all, we're "past the point of no return" already.
The March 17 episode's title "The New Normal" refers to the so-called "new normal" of natural disasters caused by global warming. For example, a storm known as "Typhoon Blessing" begins developing across the Pacific Ocean two months before the typhoon season begins. Although it doesn't threaten the United States, it does target the small country of Nauru. The cause, of course, is none other than climate change.
Of course, this wouldn't be a full defense of the Church of Global Warming without a few dissenters. The designated climate change denier for this episode comes in the form of not a politician but Pastor Eli Bragg (Jim True-Frost), the leader of a large Christian organization known as the Christian Redeemers Network. In a speech to this group, Secretary of State Elizabeth McCord's (Téa Leoni) husband Henry (Tim Daly) quotes the Bible and beseeches the room to accept the infallible word of climate scientists as their Lord and Savior, in the name of their actual Lord and Savior.
Henry: Genesis 2:15 uses two Hebrew words to describe God's purpose in placing man in the Garden of Eden: "Avad" and "Shamar." Meaning "Serve" and "Protect." It's the core of our purpose here on Earth, and our instruction for worshipping God. But it's hard to claim you love the Creator, if you're ignoring the profound harm being done to His masterpiece. The longer we neglect our duty to God, the farther we stray from His purpose, and the closer we are to succumbing to an existential threat to humanity: Climate change.
Elizabeth: I know that wasn't the speech you imagined.
Eli: The whole point of the invitation was unity.
Elizabeth: We face a common threat. Solidarity is our only option.
Eli: Your husband quoted Genesis, but the moral of that book is that humans are fallible. Most doctors used to think that leeches cured pneumonia.
Elizabeth: You really want to put your chips on that square? Your megachurch is in a flood zone near Greensboro. Millions of your followers are within reach of Atlantic hurricanes. We can help protect 'em, but we need to act now.
Eli: Ma'am, I'll level with you. In my opinion, this whole climate thing is just a Trojan horse to grow the power of the federal government and undermine our liberty.
Elizabeth: Not the government I work for. Or one I want to lead.
Eli: Come along, there are some folks I want you to meet.
Elizabeth: Okay.
Elizabeth wants to preach solidarity but apparently won't accept debate. For the record, climate change data and projections, like humans, have clearly been fallible, from the constant doomsday deadlines they predict to historical temperatures to even basic weather conditions. It's hard to conclude that "the planet is dying" when those dire proclamations have been wrong so many times for so long. And it becomes even harder when those inaccurate climate change reports are asking for trillions in taxpayer money to fix the "problem."
If that already sounds like an overblown fictionalization of anything to do with climate, watch a so-called NASA administrator explain the whole situation with the typhoon himself.
Glenn: Typhoon Blessing is a freak. It's the most powerful ever, two months before the official start of typhoon season. Set off alarm bells within the scientific community, so we went looking. This was taken above the monsoon trough by our new goes-18 satellite. Maps are like rashes. If it's big, if it's red, it's probably bad.
Matt: Yeah, I'm getting hives just looking at it.
Glenn: Here's a patch of superheated ocean. Rising temperatures are outpacing even our worst-case models, so tropical cyclogenesis is gonna get more frequent, more destructive.
Daisy: So Blessing isn't a freak. It's the new normal.
Glenn: Well, there was a time when we couldn't link specific storms to climate change, but that time has passed. Which brings us to Nauru. The survivors need to leave now.
Blake: You mean until they rebuild?
Glenn: No, no. I mean permanently.
Jay: All right, hang on, hang on. Y-you want an entire people to just pack up and leave?
Matt: Walls, dykes, levees. We have ways of fighting rising sea levels.
Glenn: Well, with bedrock, maybe. But this island's built on soft coral. Another high-frequency wave event could be...
Elizabeth: Devastating.
Glenn: It's like a tsunami hitting a sandcastle. And given the data, the odds of that happening in the near future are too high for comfort.
To be fair, the episode doesn't entirely blame climate change for this storm. It also blames the United States.
After the typhoon hits, about one thousand people are killed, and several hundred are reported missing. Nauru's president and 19 members of parliament were killed so the line of succession goes to the consular official, a grad student in the U.S. The newly installed president, David Akua (Tai Hara), rejects Elizabeth's plan to relocate the country's population, denouncing the U.S. for causing global warming. Sadly, nothing else can be done, she says, "We are past the point of no return."
David: But I work in consular affairs. I only took this job to help pay for grad school.
Elizabeth: We're gonna get you on a flight to Hawaii that leaves in a few hours. From there, a military plane will take you on to Nauru. I know you didn't ask to be president.
David: My mum. I can barely breathe 'cause I don't know if she's alive or dead, and you're telling me...
Elizabeth: We're doing everything in our power to find her.
David: You mean, I'm supposed to take care of everyone? To help them rebuild?
Elizabeth: I'm afraid rebuilding isn't an option.
David: What are you talking about?
Elizabeth: According to our best information, the island of Nauru is no longer habitable. You have to evacuate.
David: I'm sorry. Evacuate? You spent $100 billion rebuilding New Orleans. I mean, if China can conjure whole islands in the Spratlys, I'm sure we can manage a seawall.
Elizabeth: It's not that simple.
David: It should be. Nauru wouldn't be in this mess if not for the U.S. spewing massive amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. You owe us.
Elizabeth: I know. But we are past the point of no return. Relocation is the only assistance I can offer.
David: Nauru has been home to my people for 3,000 years. We speak a language shared by no one else on Earth. We will never leave.
Elizabeth: At the cost of your lives?
David: Now, if you'll excuse me, apparently I have a plane to catch.
Now, while she and NASA claim we're "past the point of no return" regarding climate change, that doesn't stop Elizabeth and her team from drafting plans to combat climate change. It gets even more unbelievable when they actually draft an appropriations bill to pay for damage to other countries caused by U.S. carbon emissions. Even Alexandria Ocasio-Ortez's Green New Deal plan wasn't dumb enough to add that on the list... yet.
The administration doesn't manage to pass the reparations bill but does pass a resolution to recognize the role of carbon emissions in the Nauru disaster. Unfortunately, the island of Nauru is now completely submerged following a second storm. Some help the government Elizabeth works for and wants to lead turned out to be.
At least the show doesn't go as far as to suggest climate change is causing pandemic diseases, like it did last season. Even without that, this episode is still a piece of presumptuous progressive propaganda. It preaches global warming as a fact despite numerous research fallings. It singles out the United States as a polluting sinner despite our country's work in declining emissions. Worst of all, it positions the United States government as a benevolent force that could save us all if we'd just stop denying the facts. It's no wonder the opponent is a preacher since they make climate change a competing religion all its own.
By now, I'm far past the point of taking this show seriously.
MRC Culture on TV Blogs Environment Global Warming Liberals & Democrats Religion Christianity Entertainment Media Broadcast Television CBS Video
Lindsay Kornick
Lindsay Kornick is a Contributing Writer for MRC Culture.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Law Corner is an emerging Web Portal for Law Students & Law Teachers all over India. Law Corner Started its journey in the year 2018. The objects of creating Law Corner were to provide multiple legal information in one platform.
Visitors to Law Corner will find a wide range of features that include Judgments, Articles, Legal Updates, News updates, Career Advice, Interviews, Questions and answers for competitive exams, Seminars, Legal Events, etc.
Lex Research Hub is an online learning platform for the scholar, founded with an objective to provide study materials, job-related information, information relating to curriculum activity, guidance for the competitive examinations and offer courses for the students of management, law, social sciences, andprofessionals.
The margins should be 1″ or 2.54 cm on all sides.
Lex Assisto is proud to be the Media Partner for this Event.


text:
Mike Richards Resigns As Host Of Jeopardy!
One Of The Biggest Live Music Companies Will Require Vaccines Or Negative COVID Tests
R. Kelly Is Going To Trial For Alleged Sex Crimes. Here's What To Know
POPULAR NOW ON KPCC
Afghanistan Death Toll Climbs As Pentagon Clarifies 1 Bomber Was Involved In Attack
Reports Of Cheating At Colleges Soar During The Pandemic
Cheers, bouquets for Misty Copeland at her 'Swan Lake' debut
In this Oct. 26, 2013 file photo, Misty Copeland dances at BET Networks' Black Girls Rock! in Newark, N.J. There was palpable emotion and a clear sense of history in the air as Misty Copeland made her New York debut Wednesday, June 24, 2015, in the lead role of "Swan Lake," a key moment for the popular ballerina who many hope will soon become American Ballet Theater's first black principal dancer.
Charles Sykes/Charles Sykes/Invision/AP
Jocelyn Noveck | AP | June 25, 2015
"Swan Lake" is always one of the most popular ballets for dance fans. But the whoops and cheers from a packed crowd at the Metropolitan Opera House signaled something more this time.
There was palpable emotion and a clear sense of history in the air as Misty Copeland made her New York debut Wednesday in the lead role, a key moment for the popular ballerina who many hope will soon become American Ballet Theater's first black principal dancer.
Copeland, 32, currently a soloist at the company, earned loud ovations after her every solo in the dual role of Odette/Odile — one of the most challenging roles in ballet and one considered an essential part of a star ballerina's repertoire.
The dancer, who has become a leading voice for diversity in her art form and amassed a following inside the dance world and out, had performed the role with ABT on tour in Australia, and as a guest with the Washington Ballet. But Wednesday's performance was considered huge because it was at ABT's home, and signaled a clear step on the path to her stated goal: making history as a principal dancer.
The fact that this was no simple "Swan Lake" was clear at the curtain calls, with Copeland greeted onstage by two fellow black dancers who've made their own history.
First came Lauren Anderson, a retired dancer with Houston Ballet, who became the first black principal there in 1990. After Anderson, 50, had lifted Copeland off her feet in a hug, out came Raven Wilkinson, who danced with the famed touring company Ballets Russes de Monte Carlo in the 1950s and later joined the Dutch National Ballet. Wilkinson, 80, curtseyed to Copeland, who returned the gesture.
Wendy Perron, author and former editor of Dance Magazine, said she felt Copeland more than delivered under great pressure.
"I was especially impressed by her Odette," Perron said, referring to the delicate, frightened swan dressed in white who entrances the prince in the first act. "She completely inhabited the role. She was able to show that vulnerability."
Damian Woetzel, director of the Vail International Dance Festival, called the performance "a long overdue milestone in ballet."
"With elegance and seriousness, Misty made a historic breakthrough," said Woetzel, a former principal at New York City Ballet. "It was an honor to be there."
The Missouri-born Copeland's recent rise to fame includes being named one of Time magazine's 100 Most Influential People this year. The magazine put her on the cover and called her "ballet's breakout star."
She also came out last year with a best-selling memoir, "Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina," in which she recounted the challenges she faced on the road to her hard-won perch in ballet, and which has been optioned for a movie. She also was the subject of a documentary at this year's Tribeca Film Festival.
She's been featured in a popular ad for Under Armour sportswear that shows her leaping and spinning in a studio, while a narrator recounts some of the negative feedback she received as a youngster, when she was told she had the wrong body for ballet and had started too late (she was 13).
Copeland also has appeared as a guest host on the Fox show "So You Think You Can Dance" and was a presenter at this year's Tony awards.
Misty Copeland achieves #SquadGoals in the documentary 'A Ballerina's Tale'
BALLETNOW
Misty Copeland named first black female principal at ABT
First Person: Bill Brown's 32-year love affair with dance
American Ballet Theatre dance school to open in Costa Mesa
Misty Copeland on broadening 'beauty' and being black in ballet
KPCC's Arts & Entertainment coverage is a Southern California resource provided by member-supported public radio. We can't do it without you.


text:
Q: Searching ASP.NET Core In-memory list Having a list stored in-memory in an ASP.NET Core Web API application. Now I want to search for a specific item in the list. If I understand the documentation correctly I've to do it the following way:
List<string> lst = cache.Get("myList");
if (lst.Contains("dog"))  ....;

Assume there are hundreds of concurrent requests, so that the list has to be copied internally hundreds of times concurrently.
Is it possible to get only a pointer to the in-memory list and do the search inside this list? Or is there another RAM-saving approach?


text:
Emergency Communications/Dispatch
Using ArcGIS Insights for the PSAP
Powerful Analytics from Esri for Public Safety Dispatch, Command and Control
Public safety answering points (PSAPs) and Command and Control Centers around the world collect, store, analyze and share huge volumes of data. Too often, the commanders and analysts in these centers rely upon multiple tools to accomplish one thing, make the data understandable. Using ArcGIS Insights for the PSAP allows centers to directly connect to their data, whether it's in ArcGIS, relational databases, spreadsheets or from ArcGIS Living Atlas of the World.
Map all of your PSAP data with projection and location accuracy—addresses, coordinates, lines or boundaries. With ArcGIS Insights, you can work with an unlimited number of map layers all at once. What's more, you can perform advanced spatial analysis techniques such as spatial aggregation, find nearest and drive times in 3 clicks or less. Ground your data to the real-world by enriching it with variables such as Esri's demographics, psychographics and socioeconomic data. It doesn't matter where your PSAP or Command and Control Center is located around the world, we offer the world's largest collection of ready-to-use geographic content for more than 130 countries so you can perform granular analysis that scales down to local geographic levels.
ArcGIS Insights is a game-changer for the PSAP that needs to transform its complex datasets into manageable questions through the use of exploratory analysis techniques that quickly uncover patterns, trends, correlations and relationships. You can use it for advanced analytics such as spatial, statistical and link analysis to further explore your data. And most importantly, Insights allows you to create reports that use text, links, images, videos and branding to clearly communicate your results and show how you reached them. You build auto-recorded workflows that establish a repeatable process, allowing you to confidently share your findings. Explore and interact with this example ArcGIS Insights project.
Watch for our other videos explaining how GIS benefits the PSAP/command and control center, and please reach out to us if you'd like more information.
Mike King is Director of Emergency Communications Solutions at Esri. Mike leads Esri's global strategy for emergency communications and works with public safety commanders around the world. He retired at the rank of chief after a 28-year law enforcement career, including eight years with the Ogden City Police Department where he served in various capacities including patrol, investigations, and SWAT. He was trained by the FBI as a criminal profiler.
public safety answering point (psap)
public safety dispatch
Web Applications for the PSAP
Mike King | Emergency Communications/Dispatch | February 12, 2021
This video focuses on ArcGIS Dashboards and how it can benefit the command and control center or public safety answering point (PSAP).
GIS for 9-1-1, An Enterprise Approach: What's Your Schema?
Mike King | Emergency Communications/Dispatch | January 21, 2021
When Greater Salt Lake MSD decided it was time to improve its addressing functions, they turned to Esri GIS Address Data Management solution.
Incident Management and Disaster Preparedness Webinar Series
Public Safety Team | Public Safety | February 17, 2021
Join Esri public safety personnel and subject matter experts as they provide a four-part webinar series for incident management team personnel.
Access to Location Data—A Key for Commercial Real Estate Success


text:
Antonia Mary Prebble (ur. 6 czerwca 1983 w Wellington) – nowozelandzka aktorka filmowa.

Filmografia
 Mirror, Mirror II – Mandy McFarlane (1997)
 William Shatner's Twist in the Tale – Jem (1997)
 A Twist in the Tale – Jem (odc. A Crack in Time, 1999)
 The Tribe – Trudy/Supreme Mother (1999-2003)
 Dark Knight – Ruth (odc. Damned, 2001)
 Power Rangers Dino Grzmot – Krista (odc. Pasja Connera, Rażeni Gromem, cz. 2)
 Power Rangers S.P.D. – Nova (głos, odc. Finał, cz. 2)
 Outrageous Fortune – Loretta West (2005)
 Power Rangers: Mistyczna moc – Clare

Linki zewnętrzne

Nowozelandzkie aktorki filmowe
Nowozelandzkie aktorki telewizyjne
Nowozelandzkie aktorki dziecięce
Ludzie urodzeni w Wellington
Urodzeni w 1983


text:
/**
 * Created by Cory on 1/10/2015.
 */

var DataManager = new Class({
    dataSets: [],

    addDataSet: function(dataSet) {
        this.dataSets.push(dataSet);
        this.updateDataSetList();
    },
    removeDataSet: function(dataSet) {
        this.dataSets.remove(dataSet);
        this.updateDataSetList();
    },
    getAllDataSets: function() {
        return this.dataSets;
    },
    getDataSet: function(name) {
        for (var i = 0; i < this.dataSets.length; i++)
            if (this.dataSets[i].name == name)
                return this.dataSets[i];
    },
    updateDataSetList: function() {
        $$(".datasets").set("html", "");
        this.dataSets.each(function(dataSet) {
            var text = "
";
            text += "
" + dataSet.getName() + "
";
            text += "
Edit
";
            text += "
Create View
";
            text += "
";
            $$(".datasets").appendHTML(text);
        });
    }
});

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


KARACHI: Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Mian Saqib Misar Saturday declared that no street should to be obstructed for over two minutes for VIP movement. He was hearing a suo motu case at the Supreme Court Karachi Registry against street bars attributable to VVIP movements.
On an inquiry from the court in regards to why open streets are hindered for VVIP movement, IG Sindh A.D. Khawaja said no street is for all time hindered in Karachi.
He additionally guaranteed the CJP that the streets would not be obstructed for over two minutes for VVIP protocol.