Articles
The Glass Ceiling of Conflict
In this editorial, QBR Politics and the World Editor Maya Galvin calls attention to an area of global politics deserving of more attention: the exclusion of women from peace processes, despite the disproportionate impact they experience during conflict and war. Galvin cites literature from the field of gender and politics to underscore how conceptions of hegemonic masculinity dictate who is afforded a seat at the negotiation table, and whose experiences during conflict are put forth. She engages with contemporary examples of Ukraine and Russia, Israel and Palestine, and the Yemeni crisis to highlight this issue, its ramifications, and the importance for action going forward.
A Political Tug-of-War: Right-Wing Nationalism’s Rise vs. the Left’s Resurgence
In this editorial, QBR Senior Politics Editor Amin Nazari explores the growing divide between right-wing nationalism and progressive left-wing politics across Europe and the Americas. Nazari uncovers the socioeconomic forces fueling these opposing movements and examines how media strategies have amplified their influence. With a focus on the upcoming U.S. and Canadian elections, this piece delves into the broader ideological battle that could reshape the future of democracy on a global scale.
Potholes and Promises: Navigating America’s Infrastructure Rollercoaster
QBR editor Alex Chou explores the pressing issue of America's deteriorating infrastructure, evaluating its significance in the 2024 presidential election. By contrasting campaign rhetoric with actionable policy, the article assesses the current and future impact of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) under the potential leadership of either presidential candidate. Chou emphasizes the importance of critically examining each candidate's policy platform to determine the most effective path forward in securing a sustainable and prosperous future for the United States.
The Role of Government in Corporate Social Responsibility - DRC Conflict Minerals Explained
In our latest editorial, QBR Editor Charvi Guduru navigates the intricate issue of conflict minerals in the DRC, analyzing the intersection of government policy and corporate ethics. Highlighting the dual-edged sword of mineral wealth versus societal cost, the article evaluates the efficacy of measures like the Dodd-Frank Act's Section 1502 in mitigating the adverse impacts of mineral extraction. Guduru advocates for enhanced transparency, rigorous regulation, and greater public engagement to ensure that government policy reflect national ESG targets. The article reconnects policy with corporate actions to contribute positively to social sustainability and help to end the cycle of exploitation in the DRC.
Argentina’s Bold Leap into Right-Wing Economic Reform
In our final segment of our Geo Spotlight Series, QBR Editors Amin Nazari and Gefen Shpil engage in a thought-provoking debate on the shift towards right-wing economic policies under Javier Milei's leadership. In a first-of-its-kind ‘debate style’ format, the co-authors of this article propose two possible views regarding the possible outcomes of Mileli's fiscal policies. Shpil argues in favor, championing Milei's radical reforms as necessary 'shock therapy' to revitalize Argentina's floundering economy through deregulation, privatization, and dollarization. Contrarily, Nazari presents a cautionary perspective, questioning the precipitous and potentially perilous impacts of such drastic measures on Argentina's social fabric and economic stability. Their dynamic exchange sheds light on the complexities of Milei's policies, exploring the fine line between economic revival and societal upheaval. This article not only dissects the ideological battleground reshaping Argentina but also invites readers to consider the broader implications of such bold economic experimentation in a historically volatile region.
A Tango of Oil Money and Prosperity
In our second segment of the Geo Spotlight Series, Philip Russ and Simon Ing explore the transformative impact of the oil industry on Latin America's economic giants. This thought-provoking article traces the journey from the early promise of wealth and progress to the challenges of the 'oil curse,' where abundance sometimes leads to economic downturns and corruption. The authors examine the shifting fortunes of Venezuela, Mexico, Guyana, and Brazil, revealing how geopolitical strategies, management practices, and international dynamics influence each country's path. Their analysis invites reflection on the future of energy, the potential for sustainable development, and the delicate balance between exploiting natural resources and fostering long-term national growth.
Powering the Future: Navigating the Lithium Triangle's Role in the Global Energy Revolution
In our latest editorial and first segment of our GeoSpotlight series, QBR Editors Navroz Mehta and Tomas Serrano delve into the heart of the Lithium Triangle—spanning Bolivia, Argentina, and Chile—as a linchpin in the quest for sustainable energy. This insightful piece reveals lithium's pivotal role in the global green tech revolution, confronting the climate crisis with what's been termed 'white gold.' The authors navigate the geopolitical, economic, and environmental landscapes that frame lithium's pivotal extraction, its profound impact on indigenous communities, and the global energy paradigm. Through their analysis, Mehta and Serrano craft a compelling discussion on the journey towards a carbon-neutral future, underscoring the complex interplay of harvesting lithium to power the green revolution.
The Yemeni Puzzle: Proxy Wars, Power Plays, and Prospects for Peace
In our latest editorial, QBR Digital Strategy Officer and Editor Amin Nazari delves into the intricate geopolitics of Yemen, revealing how this conflict is a microcosm of broader regional power struggles. Nazari adeptly unpacks the deep-rooted rivalry between Saudi Arabia and Iran, showcasing how their contention fuels Yemen's ongoing war. He brings to light Yemen's strategic significance, probing the involvement of major world powers like the USA, China, and Russia in this international chess game. He also focuses on the dire humanitarian consequences of the conflict, calling for a critical reassessment of global politics, advocating for solutions that prioritize human welfare above strategic interests and political maneuvering.
Control Behind the Curtains: The Big Pharma Show in the Canadian Political System
In our latest editorial, Dhruv Shah, QBR's Senior Politics Editor examines Big Pharma's deep-seated influence on Canadian politics. His article focuses on the industry's role in healthcare policy-making, especially regarding vaccine patents and the Canada Pharmacare Act. Highlighting concerns about lobbying and the 'revolving door' phenomenon, Shah questions whether corporate interests are overriding public health priorities in Canada's political decisions.
Protecting Journalism: Policy Ideation in an Evolving Media Environment
In our latest editorial, QBR Editor Charvi Guduru navigates the intricate channels of media dissemination in the modern age. As she notes, disseminating information in our current environment is carried through the channels of media algorithms, resharing, and third-party influencers which dictate what is seen, distributed, and given importance to. This power of information sharing and news can sway public opinion, shape elections, and educate the masses, serving both to uphold and potentially impair our democracy.