In September 2024, Hurricane Helene devastated Old Fort, North Carolina, destroying homes, trails, and businesses, affecting the recreational economy. The community unites to rebuild and maintain their vision of a just and sustainable future, focused on developing an elite trail network for cycling and hiking, boosting its tourist appeal.
The commercial agreement between the EU and U.S., signed in 2025, has generated mixed reactions. Supporters of Trump hail it as a great victory, while European critics perceive it as a surrender. Experts warn it could be a humiliation for the EU, with significant tariffs and financial commitments. Despite MAGA praises, academic analyses highlight its strategic weaknesses and potential long-term negative consequences, suggesting a tactical U.S. victory but a potential global strategic disaster.
The erosion of trust in data affects equity in policies. The team at the Race, Prosperity, and Inclusion (RPII) Initiative of Brookings seeks to build trust in data collection to strengthen sustainable associations and improve community well-being. The growing distrust in government and public data makes it difficult to identify racial and ethnic disparities, especially in health. Transparency in data collection and dissemination, along with collaborations with community organizations, are essential for rebuilding trust in this area.
Beijing strengthens its position in the Indo-Pacific, advancing territorial claims and attracting allies, taking advantage of the U.S.’s distraction with trade.
The management of forced migration under pressure is crucial to address the current crisis. It is essential to develop comprehensive migration policies addressing forced migration and refugee crises, learning from key lessons such as collaboration and effective communication. A functional migration system is needed that balances economic, moral, and strategic interests of the U.S., adapting to demographic and technological changes.
