Research Library

South Korea could strengthen its relationship with the U.S. by emphasizing how its major industries, such as shipbuilding and energy, can support U.S. efforts to compete with China. Additionally, South Korea could consider offering aid to Ukraine. In a commentary in Korea Law Times, nonresident fellow Henry Haggard explores how managing U.S.-South Korea relations can be mutually beneficial for both countries, economically and diplomatically, especially as they manage their complex interactions with China.

Gulf countries have made major strides in infrastructure to meet their developmental goals and environmental commitments, since considering a regional nuclear energy program 15 years ago. A new brief by Osamah Alsayegh advocates revisiting this program to support these states’ sustainable development goals.

New U.S. regulations, responding to U.S. national security concerns, are set to take effect in mid-January and will prohibit imports of Chinese- and Russian-made “connected” software and hardware used in manufacturing vehicles. If combined with Trump’s proposed 10%–20% tariffs on imported vehicles and auto parts, these regulations could adversely impact Mexico’s economy, reduce the global competitiveness of North America’s automotive sector, and disrupt U.S. trade agreements.

The Center for U.S. and Mexico’s Mexico Country Outlook 2025 offers expert insights on key issues shaping the future of the region, including economic reforms, regulatory changes, security concerns, and shifting political dynamics. This annual report also examines major challenges facing the Sheinbaum and Trump administrations and assesses their potential impact on U.S.-Mexico relations in the year ahead.

Climate change and human rights experts predict that by 2050, as many as 200 million people worldwide may need to relocate due to climate-induced weather disasters and environmental shifts. This issue brief examines the current trends in human migration and argues that planned relocation can be a more effective long-term strategy than waiting for emergencies to force action.

Gabriel Collins and 2036’s Jeremy Mazur explore water infrastructure investment in Texas, including the economic stakes, the cost of inaction, and opportunities to build a more resilient and sustainable future.

Former CIA senior executive Glenn Corn joined the “Baker Briefing” podcast to discuss how the incoming Trump administration might change the approach to Russia’s war in Ukraine — and why the war’s outcome matters for American interests.

Chinese companies are playing a key role in the Persian Gulf region’s energy transition, partnering with state-linked Gulf entities. By prioritizing political stability & long-term gains, these joint ventures enable quicker decision-making. A new brief from the Middle East Energy Roundtable, a collaboration between the Edward P. Djerejian Center for the Middle East and the Center for Energy Studies, explores this collaboration and U.S. perspectives.

Latin America is experiencing a new natural resource boom centered on critical minerals vital for energy transition technologies. As governments and industries work to balance sustainable, decarbonized mining practices with the needs and interests of local and Indigenous communities, they must also contend with challenges, such as resource nationalism, volatile commodity markets, and rising international competition. A working paper from the Center for Energy Studies examines how these factors influence economic opportunities, political risks, and the future of resource governance in the region.

The 2018 U.S. Farm Bill sparked a booming hemp-derived cannabinoid market, but its rapid growth has created serious consumer risks due to inadequate regulation both in Texas and nationwide. This report from the Drug Policy Program outlines how a well-regulated hemp industry — instead of a ban on these products — is essential for protecting public health, while offering recommendations to Texas lawmakers on ensuring safer products and preventing youth access.