Research Library

A globally equitable energy transition that addresses social and economic disparities may seem unlikely at the moment, but international cooperation on energy policies is achievable. In a new working paper, visiting research scholar Osamah Alsayegh outlines the complex challenges facing a just energy transition and provides policy recommendations focused on promoting international collaboration and transparency.

The purpose, scope, and scale of the roadsTaken project is introduced by Research Associate Matt Drwenski. He describes the research questions and challenges in studying Houston’s urban freeways and provides an in-depth overview.

Matt Drwenski explains how “roadsTaken,” the interactive map and database of highway displacement in Houston, was designed and displayed.

Matt Drwenski discusses the history of freeway planning in Houston, Texas — from its origins in the early 20th century to the completion of the city’s urban highway system.

In order to safeguard the peaceful use of outer space — and protect sustain U.S. leadership in this domain — a modern treaty is needed to foster international cooperation in commercial and national security space activities. This new policy brief outlines the issues.

Geopolitical risks in Russia/Ukraine and Middle East have increased the importance of Latin America’s hydrocarbon reserves and its contribution to global energy security. Growth in the region’s oil production and its prospects for increased global natural gas exports both underscore the need for U.S. and the region governments’ policies that favor the development of Latin America’s hydrocarbons potential as well as significant investments in its decarbonization efforts, writes fellow Francisco J. Monaldi.

San Diego and Tijuana, key entry points at the U.S.-Mexico border, face challenges in meeting the needs of migrants arriving in their cities due to insufficient shelter capacity, infrastructure, and funding. Ana Martín Gil’s new report examines the cities’ differing migrant reception systems and approaches to collaborative efforts among international, federal, and local groups, while also providing policy recommendations to advance the development of an orderly and humane asylum system.

Gain-of-function research is an important tool in medicine and other areas that leads to new biotechnologies, therapies, and tools. Instead of banning it, existing oversight can be used to ensure its safety.

America’s cities are increasingly diverse, but diversity without equity and inclusion is problematic. Policymakers can contribute to the economic growth and success of America’s cities by providing health equity, environmental justice, and equal access to resources for entrepreneurs and small business owners from historically excluded groups, writes Constance Elise Porter.

Turkey lies in a seismically active zone but lacks the rigorous regulation of construction safety standards needed to improve earthquake resistance. In a new Edward P. Djerejian Center for the Middle East brief, nonresident fellow A.Kadir Yildirim explains the relationship between the government and construction industry and what is needed to improve Turkey’s earthquake preparedness.