Sudan in Flames: The Reign of Terror of RSF and SAF
The fall of El-Fasher in North Darfur to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) challenges the Washington consensus with Cairo, Riyadh and Abu Dhabi to end suffering in Sudan. Both the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) obstruct humanitarian aid, denying access and attacking activists. The RSF loots supplies and kills humanitarian workers, while the SAF launches airstrikes on civilians. The international community, led by the US, seeks a solution, but humanitarian funding is scarce.
Skowhegan, Maine: Building a Vibrant Future Along the Kennebec River
Skowhegan, Maine, stands out for its vibrant future along the Kennebec River, with $1 billion in development. Regional food projects, riverfront revitalization, and new housing show rural innovation. Local leaders invest in the river and agricultural economy, highlighting rural renewal with a focus on heritage and community collaboration.
ASEAN 2025: Progress and Challenges
The ASEAN in 2025 shows progress and stagnation. Malaysia led agreements and East Timor’s accession. The region faced tariffs and conflicts, with Malaysia mediating successfully. The summit featured leaders such as Trump and Li Qiang. Efforts are made to strengthen resilience and autonomy, but tensions persist in Myanmar and the South China Sea.
Transforming Rural America: Scott Andes on Investing in Distressed Areas for Prosperity
In the Reimagine Rural podcast, Scott Andes and Tony Pipa discuss prosperity for hard-to-reach rural areas. Andes, from Carnegie Mellon University, highlights programs such as the Build Back Better Regional Challenge and the Recompete Pilot Program. The EDA, from the Department of Commerce, finances creative ideas for economic development. Despite obstacles, economic success is expected in these regions.
Pathways to AI Governance in Military Applications
In October 2019, Brookings and Tsinghua University organized a dialogue on AI and national security between the US and China. AI development leaders must prevent military use that harms civilians through governance and preparedness regimes. Governments can implement agreements to reduce the probability and consequences of AI-driven military crises and regulate their technical and use causes.