The Carnegie Endowment for International Peace

Energy

Breaking the Suicide Pact: U.S.–China Cooperation on Climate Change
Summary: The U.S. and China can take practical, non treaty-based approaches to cutting their carbon dioxide emissions across economic sectors—with little financial impact. Steps include eliminating subsidies that discourage energy efficiency, providing tax breaks for efficient and low-carbon energy investment, and making climate cooperation integral to trade policy.

International Affairs

Asia—Shaping the Future
Summary: The next U.S. administration can develop a clear strategic vision for Asia befitting the region’s status as the new global “center of gravity” by: Deciding on clear U.S. strategic objectives in the region, appointing a high-level advocate for Asia, prioritizing the bewildering alphabet of organizations and venues to achieve those objectives, and avoiding coalitions based on common values or democracy.

Is a League of Democracies a Good Idea?
Summary: The next U.S. administration should not push for a new league of democracies, but instead take the following steps to bolster democracy promotion and United States foreign policy around the world: Opt for more flexible partnerships to fit specific issues and contexts, clarify that the U.S. does not intend to use military force to overthrow governments in the name of democracy, and correct policies that produce U.S. abuses of the rule of law and civil liberties at home and abroad.

Sunset for the Two-State Solution?
Summary: To keep a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict alive for the next administration, the U.S. should stop blocking a power sharing agreement between Hamas and Fatah,  pursue a realistic cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, and help develop Palestinian institutions capable of authoritative decisions.