A Response to the World Development Report 2012
The report claims to be able to form arguments and reach conclusions which extend beyond the economic realm. Yet, the failure to see gender equality as an “end” as well as a “means”, and the financial language used throughout demonstrate that the authors have been limited by their discipline more than they would like to admit.
An analysis of David Cameron’s visit to Moscow
David Cameron’s mid-September visit to Moscow had three objectives: to revive the practice of top level contacts; to boost trade and investment; and to put down some markers about values. Choosing either greater central control or more liberal development has its risks. It is in the interests of Britain to work with Russia towards the second.
Understanding the fall of the wall and other time tales
The 20th Anniversary of the Fall of the Berlin Wall offers has understandably generated a number of opportunities to look backwards to what happened, and to ask why it was that IR specialists seemed unable to see what was coming.
Archival research in the age of Wikileaks
In an age when IR is governed by theoretical and political science approaches, the validity of engaging with historical and diplomatic archives is more relevant than ever.
Why I Riot: A View on the London Riots
I riot because I have absolutely nothing to lose. I riot because I’m angry. Anger envelopes me like a blanket every day of my life. I’m angry because I’m poor, I’ve always been poor, and I know I will never be able to afford all those nice things people are supposed to have. I’m angry because my life is shit and I know it’s always going to be shit. You want to lock me up for it? Go ahead. It means nothing to a nothing like me.
Turning to the Territorial Army: implications for the operational effectiveness of the British Army
The UK has never had a coherent policy for its Reserve Forces. Yet, the UK Ministry of Defence is now seeking to close the gap between the ambition for the armed forces outlined in the Strategic Defence and Security Review and the resources available to meet that ambition. To achieve this, it will need to develop a coherent policy for the UK Reserves.
One Man’s Casino, Another Man’s Aircraft Carrier
There have been several reports that the Chinese may have been the winners to purchase the British HMS Ark Royal. If this is the case, we could see the old flagship of the Royal Navy serving in the PLA navy. Western and Russian military planners should think long and hard on whom they sell their old wares to. It just might come back to haunt them.
Opinion – Turkey’s Role in Europe’s Post-American Defense
Europe must take Turkey for what it is: not a replacement for the United States, not an ally of destiny, but a partner of convenience.
Opinion – One Year of Masoud Pezeshkian’s Leadership in Iran
Hardliners still remain dominant in Iranian politics, and Pezeshkian is too cautious about losing their confidence.
Intellectual Property Rights: A Political Theory Perspective
In debates over intellectual property, as in debates over freedom of expression, healthcare, global trade, even democracy itself, political theory can be of help, because it draws our attention to the differences, as well as the similarities, between people’s interests, and reminds us that conflict, as well as cooperation, can be morally justified.
