The Classicist: Modern Paradoxes

This policy brief examines how the United States can better align diplomatic, commercial, security, development, and educational tools with the priorities and institutional conditions of African partners. Focusing on the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria, and Djibouti, it develops a framework for more coherent, context-sensitive engagement that strengthens long-term partnerships, improves policy coordination, and produces more durable strategic and developmental outcomes for both sides.

An international court has filed charges against the men who run Afghanistan’s schools. Two women deprived of an education suggest what that is worth.

The 2025 National Security Strategy has ignited debates about several distinctive assertions, especially the choice of giving priority to the Western Hemisphere, thereby correcting the insufficient attention Washington has long paid to Latin America. In addition, the document may indicate a softening of the perception of China, and it repeats the appeal to European allies to do more for their own defense. Of particular note, furthermore, is the identification of culture as a dimension of security.