Policy Pulse (June 22, 2021)
The most compelling new think tank reports delivered in a timely update.
Welcome to the Policy Pulse - a breakdown summary of some of the most compelling recent reports to come out of think tanks from around the world. Special thanks to Sasanka Kanuparthi for curating this edition.
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How is social media fueling extremist movements in Australia?
Social media is contributing to radicalisation in societies across the world, and Australia is no stranger to this phenomenon. In recent years, extremist movements have spread disinformation and violent content online, including several targeted campaigns against public servants and individuals alike. In exploring the issue for the Lowy Institute, Lydia Khalil emphasizes the need for the government to regulate the internet a.la GDPR, to fund research on social media’s influence on extremism, and institutionalization of online diversion and intervention programs, among others. This report is valuable to those who follow national policies on social media and internet regulation.
Is the world finally waking up to the influence of China’s Tech Giants and its data collection ecosystem?
China’s growth over the decades was premised upon building efficient supply chains, and its tech companies benefited immensely. However, these big tech firms rely heavily on data collection, and are now processing large swathes of personal and organizational data under the supervision of the state. Dr. Samantha Hoffman & Dr. Nathan Attrill delve into the threat of state control over these entities, and the threat of disruptions to digital supply chains, data protection, and cybersecurity. The report recommends initiating robust due diligence mechanisms, researching the PRC’s intentions, and reorienting policy frameworks as per contemporary challenges, etc. China watchers and cybersecurity scholars can access the finer details of the ASPI report through this link.
Where does the EU stand on the unethical use of military drones?
How ethical are armed drones? This is a contentious question, as there is little agreement on the legal frameworks required to ensure transparency and accountability. Militaries across the world deploy armed drones to reduce combat casualties, conduct precision strikes, and counterterror operations. The outcomes are attractive to decision-makers as it reduces costs considerably. Jessica Dorsey’s and Nilza Amaral’s research paper for Chatham House discusses the obligation of like-minded democracies such as the UK, France, and Germany, etc., in promoting an international framework on drone use. This research paper is based on research workshops and simulations held at Chatham House in 2019, conducted to understand the policy implications for Europe. It is beneficial to researchers who advocate transparency and study the impacts of drone warfare.
Are EU national advisory bodies effective on climate governance?
Member states’ climate policy is determined by specially constituted national level institutions, with predetermined functions and governance mechanisms. There is little understanding among climate policy researchers about the effectiveness and distinctions between the various bodies. This report for the French institute, IDDRI, showcases the working typology of advisory bodies in the EU, based on criteria such as proximity to the government for policymaking, and continuity in consultative mechanisms. The performance is assessed on the robustness of climate policy frameworks, emission reduction plans, climate laws, and governance structures. Learn more about the parameters and inner workings of member states’ climate policies, by clicking this link.
How do burgeoning China-Iran ties affect Israel and the world?
Israel’s archnemesis, Iran, upped the ante in recent years by supporting rebel groups militarily and organizing attacks on Saudi refineries, to project power in the Middle East. China’s heavy investment in Iran raises questions on the threat to Israeli interests. Such economic support could blunt the impact of US sanctions, if the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ (IRGC) plans are taken into consideration. Kevin Lim’s research focuses on the China-Iran relationship, investments, policy convergences & divergences, and military assistance to Iran. China is also Israel’s major trade partner, and the relationship with Iran could constrain Israel in more ways than one. To understand the Israeli perspective on the challenges they face from this relationship, read the INSS report here.
Did citizen participation in the electricity crisis in Pakistan change the country’s political discourse?
Hundreds of violent incidents were recorded in the previous decade in Pakistan, owing to electricity outages that lasted up to 14 hours a day. Protests turned violent also on account of governance failures. It influenced debates and the outcome of the 2013 General Election, forcing politicians to implement short-term measures. The state subsequently built capacities, but the political discourse was devoid of conversations around affordability, sustainability, and participation in the decision-making process. This IDS working paper by Umair Javed, Aiza Hussain, and Hassan Aziz, investigates questions on political fragility, accountability, use of violence, long-term impact, and the actions of national decision-makers. You can learn about the energy politics in Pakistan by reading the paper here.
Can we put an end to human trafficking in the 21st century?
Human trafficking and exploitation impacts millions even to this day, and the criminal syndicates continue to operate beyond borders. However, relentless efforts by countries across the world, civil societies, global institutions, etc., are helping curb the human rights violations. Jamille Bigio and Rachel B. Vogelstein research and identify its effects on the US and global interests, national security, and economic growth. The suggestions include changes to the US National Action Plan, immigration reform, and revision of the national security & intelligence strategy. Readers who follow human trafficking crimes and global governance can access the report through this link.
Can US cooperation help India transition off coal?
Even though India’s per-capita carbon emissions remain significantly low, they could increase exponentially if the country’s reliance on coal-based energy consumption persists. To achieve the 2015 Paris Agreement climate goals and switch to renewables, India and the world need to decommission coal plants by 2040. Joshua W. Busby, Sarang Shidore, Johannes Urpelainen, and Morgan D. Bazilian argue that the US can assist India by offering support to its coal-dependent communities, repurpose former coal sites, and decommission coal-fired power plants. The research also looks at barriers existing within India, where economic, healthcare and social costs challenge her from carrying out climate reforms. This report is a fascinating read for climate enthusiasts who are interested in India’s climate governance.
Is Brazil’s new cybersecurity strategy obsolete already?
The February 2020 national strategy for cybersecurity, ‘E-Ciber’, outlines Brazil’s approach towards digital security, but emerging challenges could make this strategic blueprint obsolete. As the virtual world changes rapidly, experts are making efforts to bridge the gaps and inadequacies in last year’s strategy. Louise Marie Hurel’s strategic paper looks at capacity building and cybersecurity-related training, national and international coordination, and Brazil’s vulnerabilities to threats. She also offers suggestions on strengthening cyber governance actions, the creation of a national cybersecurity council, international partnerships, advanced courses, among several others. If you wish to understand cybersecurity in Latin America, read the report here.
How can Europe achieve a sustainable post-pandemic recovery?
As the EU lifts COVID-19 austerity measures, the bloc is recalibrating its industrial policy to create greater resilience in the single market. The challenge lies in ensuring a sustainable yet robust recovery, considering the post-pandemic geopolitical implications. According to a CEPS Task Force on New Industrial Strategy for Europe, the EU should reward innovators and improve revenue streams under the European Green Deal, upgrade strategic value chains, ensure effective rollout of 5G, advance digitization and revamp employment services. To understand the EU's recovery agenda, download the executive summary of the final report scheduled for July through this link.
The above was written by Sasanka Kanuparthi and edited by myself.
Since Policy Pulse is a new format we’re experimenting, we’d really appreciate any suggestions or feedback from readers, so feel free to reply to this email, leave a comment or message me at my LinkedIn profile.
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- Liam
Founder of Policy People