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The Afghan Papers
Committing Britain to War in Helmand, 2005-06Ten years after British troops entered Afghanistan, a new book dissects the strategic decisions that took the UK to war in Helmand.
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Commentary
Somalia's 2012 Agenda
Somalia has until August to complete political reform, inaugurate a new constitution and hold national elections before the end of the transitional period. It must also capitalise on the Kenyan incursion to rout Al-Shabaab and establish security in this enduring weak state, making 2012 a make-or-break year for Somalia. 4 Jan 2012
The Dear Leader is dead, will the regime follow?
As North Korea’s leadership transitions, Kim Jong-un will have to contend with a region that is undergoing significant geopolitical change whilst also dealing with possible challenges to his own fledgling regime.20 Dec 2011
VIDEO: Perspectives for 2012
RUSI Director General Professor Michael Clarke offers his defence and international security perspectives for the year ahead.16 Dec 2011
China 2012: the Year of the Dragon
In 2012, the Asia-Pacific region will not be immune to transition, and China's dominant role will be emphasised in its relationship with Taiwan and the wider region.16 Dec 2011
Aftershocks and Transitions: an Unashamedly Speculative Look at 2012
If this year brought us an earthquake, then 2012 will be a year of aftershocks and transitions. Speculate as we might, we must still prepare for the predictable but watch for the surprises.15 Dec 2011
Where do we go From Here? Transitioning from Dictatorship to Democracy in 2012
The democratic gains made from the Arab Spring are by no means assured. 2012 will see would-be democracies challenged to respond to and enable an historical transformation from dictatorship to democracy.15 Dec 2011
Afghans must take ownership of security in 2012
With President Obama’s decision to reduce troop numbers throughout 2012 in Afghanistan, there will be an urgent emphasis to support Afghan forces fully take charge of their national security.14 Dec 2011
A Typhoon over Japan?
On 16 December Japan will decide the winning aircraft bid for the 'F-X' programme. Along with the usual technical considerations, the bidding process has sparked larger strategic questions for the direction of Japan's national security and could pave the way for greater European involvement in Asia.14 Dec 2011
Is Putin Best Placed to Subvert a 'Russian Spring'?
The anti-government protests following the Russian parliamentary elections on 4 December are indicative of a growing enmity towards the ruling elites. Yet, the ruling elites have opted to re-instate Vladimir Putin as President next year as they see him as the best candidate to shield them from widespread disenchantment unravelling before them8 Dec 2011
The Gulf's food security dilemma
Food security is an important geopolitical consideration for Gulf countries concerned with rising food demand in the face of low production rates and vast imports. In order to maintain food security, imports will remain vital, as well as ensuring the physical security of international and domestic supplies.6 Dec 2011
Autumn Statement 2011: Opportunities for Infrastructure Security and Resilience
The Chancellor's Autumn Statement and the concurrent launch of the 2011 Infrastructure Plan present great opportunities for investment in the UK's infrastructure. But in addition to economic considerations, cautious fund managers will need to rely on the security and risk advisory community to help with investment decisions. 5 Dec 2011
The Euro-debt crisis: from finance to geopolitics?
The current European financial and debt crisis has highlighted Germany's increasing power and amplified Berlin's influence over the EU. The implications remain unknown but British engagement could temper excessive German influence from within and create a stronger and more globally-minded Europe.2 Dec 2011
Devaluing the Dual-Track Approach to Iran
With the ransacking of the British embassy in Tehran, the West has further shrunk its repository of policy options, leaving sanctions as the policy tool of choice. However, while sanctions may slow Iran's forays into the nuclear field, they are unlikely to divert their course entirely.2 Dec 2011
ANALYSIS PODCAST: Women in Defence
Women from the highest ranks of defence forces from ten countries have been meeting at a conference to celebrate their achievement and discuss the issues they face. Lizz Pearson talks to the organisers of the conference and finds out that the issues are less about gender and more about sharing expertise.
30 Nov 2011
30 Nov 2011
The Independent Commission Report: A New Start for Bahrain?
The Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry's (BICI) report has surprised many with its balanced findings into February's violence. But King Hamad must begin a reform process now instead of setting up another talking shop.29 Nov 2011
VIDEO: Is Russia Threatening Missile Defence
On 23 November, Russian President Medvedev made an important address to the Russian people in which he underlined hostility towards European Missile Defence. Is this further evidence of a divergent attitudes towards nuclear security?
25 Nov 2011
25 Nov 2011
ANALYSIS PODCAST: Chinese Power and the Eurozone Crisis
In this RUSI Analysis podcast, we turn East to China, lately the focus of European financial hopes. 25 Nov 2011
The Arab Spring Redux? The Egyptian Revolution returns with a vengeance
Egypt's army cannot be allowed to hijack the revolution, and protesters will keep the pressure on. But what does that mean for elections, just days away?24 Nov 2011
UK Border Security: Growing Concerns over the Relaxation of Controls
The current controversy over the supposed relaxation of security checks at UK borders highlights the complex nature of border security. The issue goes far beyond personality clashes and Ministerial accountability. It may prove to provide the impetus for root-and-branch border security reform.23 Nov 2011
UK Defence Acquisition: an encouraging year for major projects
The UK's National Audit Office has published its latest report assessing the Major Projects of the Ministry of Defence. The informative document reports only very limited cost overruns, and few of them can be seen as industry's responsibility. It also provokes thoughts about the government's accounting system and the protected position of the Joint Combat Aircraft in the British defence programme.17 Nov 2011
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