Russian police officers, courtesy of Evgeniy Isaev/Flickr
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Central Asia: Labor Migrants Caught in Russian Politicians’ Crosshairs

2 Aug 2013 Security Watch

Sending illegal economic migrants back to Central Asia has become a staple of many Russian politicians’ election campaigns. This is a major cause for concern for the region’s ruling elites, writes Murat Sadykov. Will it lead to political unrest, they ask. More on «Central Asia: Labor Migrants Caught in Russian Politicians’ Crosshairs»


A flag-painted collection box for tips for the caretaker of a pilgrimage site in Pakistan, courtesy of Salma M Siddiqui

Negotiating with the Taliban: Pakistan’s Dangerous Dilemma

1 Aug 2013 Security Watch

The newly elected Pakistani government remains at the forefront of efforts to negotiate with the Taliban. However, given its identity and ideology, Salma M Siddiqui warns that the risks of accommodation could be grave indeed. More on «Negotiating with the Taliban: Pakistan’s Dangerous Dilemma»


A spiral of American flags, courtesy of flickr
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Political Warfare

31 Jul 2013 Security Watch

The United States currently lacks the capabilities needed to win ‘hearts and minds’ in places such as the Middle East, or so argues Max Boot. Consequently, it’s time for Washington to redouble its efforts and call this requirement by its rightful name – political warfare. More on «Political Warfare»