In today's world, one detects a growing tension between governments and nations. The democracies of Europe and North America are faltering on their commitments to their people; namely, on the social contract inherent in the modern state. These governments were supposed to safeguard the free economy, social justice, and civil and political liberties. Not anymore.
To ensure world stability, a private sector–dominated superclass driving globalization needs reining in.
Of the world's elites, none has flown higher than those who have led the financial community. The re-engineering of international finance has been one of the transformational trends of our times - in just a quarter-century, capital flows became massive, instantaneous and controlled by a new breed of traders representing a handful of major financial institutions from a few countries. Their rewards have transcended any in history as shown by an estimate by Alpha Magazine that the top hedge fund manager last year made $3bn.
A new study reveals that although many poor households will require urgent assistance because of rising food prices, more are likely to gain than lose. The Doha round could help by allowing developing countries the policy tools they need to build up their own agricultural sectors; increasing food supply in the medium term; and shielding the poor from market failures that can affect their survival.
Douglas Paal appeared on BBC Radio 4’s The World Tonight to discuss the political ramifications of China’s massive earthquake—which saw the collapse of numerous buildings with substandard construction, prompting public outrage and calls for investigations of corruption.
Robert Kagan and The New York Times’ David Brooks discussed Kagan’s new book The Return of History and the End of Dreams.
Secretary K.C. Chan of Hong Kong's Financial Services and Treasury speaks on how Hong Kong will continue to serve in its unique role as the bridge between the global financial markets and the booming economy in China.
Since the inauguration, the presidential web site has evolved into the domain of President Dmitry Medvedev, and the updated version of the White House's web site now carries information about Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's activities. But the smooth transfer of power between presidents is a complicated process, and it is important to examine how Medvedev will be able to build constructive relationships with the regions.
The vision is grand, the reality less so. Russia's foreign policy has been merely assertive and reactive up till now. Will the new President manage something more constructive?
Carnegie's Martha Brill Olcott spoke with host Bob Moon about Vladimir Putin's legacy, the Russian economy, and the course Putin's successor Dmitry Medvedev might take.























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