From France’s divisive hijab ban to contentious gender eligibility rulings, the Paris 2024 Olympics were marred by heated controversy. These Games raised urgent questions about fairness, freedom, and the integrity of international sport—issues that will linger far beyond the closing ceremonies.

In a bold and unexpected move, Ukraine launched a surprise offensive into Russian territory, marking the first invasion of Russia since World War II. With Russian forces scrambling to respond, this daring strategy could shift the dynamics of the war and reshape the future of the conflict.

In a week marked by escalating conflicts and public health crises, our global news review covers the Mpox outbreak, Ukraine’s bold military advances, Sudan’s relentless civil war, and the latest in U.S.-Panama migration policy. These unfolding stories highlight the urgent challenges shaping our world today.

As the world grapples with rising populations and climate change, artificial meat emerges as a groundbreaking solution to global food security challenges. By reducing environmental impact and offering a sustainable alternative to conventional meat, cultured meat could reshape the future of food.

Despite widespread public support for abortion rights, restrictive policies continue to rise, highlighting a stark disconnect between American voters and their government. As “weird” becomes the new political shorthand, Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz challenge the unsettling narratives driving anti-abortion legislation.

Brief #153 – Foreign Policy Brief
by: Ibrahim Castro

In this week’s global news review, we delve into the escalating protests in Venezuela, the violent far-right riots sweeping the UK, and the assassination of a Hamas leader that threatens to ignite further conflict in the Middle East. As governments topple and tensions rise, stay informed on the critical developments shaping our world.

Brief #152 – Foreign Policy Brief
by: Yelena Korshunov

Donald Trump’s close ties with Vladimir Putin, highlighted by his controversial praise and diplomatic approach, bring the spotlight back to the unsettling Putin and Trump connections. As Trump proposes a peace plan for Ukraine, these connections raise critical concerns about the future of U.S. foreign policy and global security.

Policy Brief #175 – Health and Gender
by: Geoffrey Small

In the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, the United States is grappling with a rapidly shifting landscape of reproductive rights, marked by new policy proposals, legal battles, and state-level legislation. This article delves into the ongoing turmoil, highlighting key events and their profound impact on the future of abortion access in America.

Brief #229 – Civil Rights Policy Brief
by: Rod Maggay

The Trump classified documents case presents a pivotal moment in legal history, as the dismissal by Judge Aileen Cannon and subsequent appeal by Special Counsel Jack Smith challenge established legal precedents. As the case navigates through the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals, its outcome could have far-reaching implications for the 2024 presidential election and the rule of law.

Brief #151 – Foreign Policy Brief
by: Yelena Korshunov

The intricate and often clandestine ties between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump have captivated global attention, intertwining political maneuvers with allegations of Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. As new revelations emerge, the depth of Putin and Trump’s relationship continues to unfold, raising critical questions about the geopolitical implications of their mutual influences.