Afghanistan and Pakistan
Human Rights in a New Era: Wars for Peace
The U.S. and the Rising Powers
Global Food Crisis
Cuba on the Verge 
Energy and the Global Economy
Afghanistan and Pakistan Dr. Hank Kennedy, Department of Political Science, WFU. Newfound hopes for stability in Iraq have shifted the U.S. military focus back to Afghanistan and Pakistan, one of the most volatile border regions in the world. What impact will this renewed interest have on the two states as well as on U.S. defense strategy?
Human Rights in a New Era: Wars for Peace Dr. Sarah Lischer, Department of Political Science, WFU. As the Universal Declaration of Human Rights celebrates its 60th anniversary, events in the Balkans, Sudan and Myanmar continue to challenge its idealism, while raising new questions about the prospects for humanitarian interventions. Do human rights transcend national borders and customs? Is the definition of human rights changing?
The U.S. and the Rising Powers Dr. Wei-Chin Lee, Department of Political Science, WFU. Since the end of the cold war, the U.S. has emerged as the world's predominant power. However, in the 21st century some rapidly developing countries have become increasingly influential. Who are these rising powers? Will their emergence change the global balance of power? How will the U.S. react?
Global Food Crisis Dr. Joseph Daniels, Department of Economics, WFU. Global prices for food staples have risen dramatically, resulting in protests and unrest around the world. What factors are driving prices up, and can they be tamed? What will the political fallout be for governments that fail to act, and what role can global institutions play?
Cuba on the Verge Dr. Peter Siavelis, Department of Political Science, WFU. Since Fidel Castro handed over the presidency of Cuba to his brother, Raul in early 2008, signs of greater economic openness have led to much speculation. Will Raul seek to reopen ties with the U.S.? What role will Cuba's American exiles play in shaping a post-Castro Cuba?
Energy and the Global Economy Dr. Robert Whaples, Department of Economics, WFU. Rising energy prices, driven by instability in key producing regions such as the Middle East and increasing demand from developing countries, are affecting the global economy. What are the potential consequences of huge wealth transfers to oil-exporting states? Are there any realistic alternative energy scenarios on the horizon?
