The recent “New York Declaration” supports an end to the war in Gaza through a two-state solution. This may appear to be a significant step toward possible Palestine nationhood, but it brings both good news and bad news.
The objectives of Israeli and U.S. leaders, especially since 2000, have united in a strategy of corporate-military dominance of the Middle East. This approach has come to a head in recent days, with Israeli-American attacks against Iran. Will global democracy win out, or will the conflict escalate into a wider war?
Universities have advanced knowledge and shaped society through the power of academic freedom. But as that freedom comes under increasing threat, what might be at stake for research, innovation, and the public good?
In my third annual commentary on the V-Dem Project’s democracy report, I break down the data on global trends in democracy and autocracy.
This historical overview summarizes regional conflict and change in Arabic-speaking Asia from 1800 to today. It traces empires, national movements, wars, migrations, diasporas, decolonization, and economic change over time.
The ongoing war in Gaza is not just a war between Israelis and Palestinians. It is a defining global struggle in decolonization and national equality. What key events have led to this harrowing moment?
Examples of past (and current) global protests show how people in different nations—and with differing political views—come together to make a statement about human values. Such global activism is powerful; it may even have an impact in reshaping the United Nations.
The 2024 V-Dem report on global democracy seeks to explain the rise in autocracy around the world. I explore this report through comparisons of global politics at different levels—and consider what effect international organizations may have on democracy.
If the United Nations and its members can resolve the current crisis in Gaza—by ending the war and moving toward the recognition of a Palestinian state—U.S. officials will likely learn to pay more attention to the UN, its significance, and its structures.
Exploring the subfields of history is not only valid but valuable. Understanding these topics generates new ideas and perspectives about world history—and reveals important connections, causation, and interactions.