Understanding the FAIR Drug Pricing Act Debate

Alliance for Citizen Engagement

The Fair Accountability and Innovative Research Act was introduced in March 2021. The FAIR Drug Pricing Act imposes a requirement on pharmaceutical companies to notify the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and furnish a transparency and justification report at least 30 days before implementing any price increase on drugs priced at $100 […]

Pros and Cons of the Feed the Future Program 

Alliance for Citizen Engagement

Introduction  For several decades, the United States has led the global fight to eradicate world hunger. Since the early twentieth century, food aid has served as a component of U.S. foreign policy. From President Truman’s Marshall Plan to help rebuild Europe after World War II to President Obama’s Feed the Future program to help developing […]

Global Status of Anti-Satellite (ASAT) Weaponry and Testing

Alliance for Citizen Engagement

Anti-satellite weapons, or ASATs, are a growing topic of international concern in the 21st century. These weapons usually consist of a projectile, launched into space on a missile, for the purpose of destroying a target satellite in low Earth orbit. The kinetic impact of an ASAT projectile into its target satellite can create millions of […]

Understanding the Deep-Sea Mining Debate

Alliance for Citizen Engagement

Introduction  The development of renewable energy sources like electric vehicle (EV) batteries and wind turbines, crucial for transitioning away from fossil fuels and achieving the Paris Agreement goals, depends heavily on critical minerals and rare earth elements. China, Chile, and Argentina are key suppliers, mining these minerals to meet current global demands. Notably, South America […]

Failures and Successes of the Phase One Trade Agreement with China

Alliance for Citizen Engagement

Introduction In recent decades, trade between China and the US has significantly grown, with China being a major source of imports for the United States and a top market for American goods and services. Despite the economic interdependence, the relationship is complex. The trade war that initiated in 2018 exemplifies the complexities in this dynamic. […]

US Response to Iran’s Space Program 

Alliance for Citizen Engagement

Amid US concern over Iran’s nuclear capabilities, the Middle Eastern nation’s space programs have also come under scrutiny. Tehran’s interest in space dates back to 1957, when the country joined the United Nations Committee on Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS). Iran’s recent technological achievements have raised concerns about the potential for expanded space development […]

Introduction to U.S.-Spain Relations

Alliance for Citizen Engagement

Quick Facts Introduction Spain’s shift to democracy in 1978, solidified by its new Constitution, also signaled a move from isolationism to greater international collaboration. This was followed shortly by Spain’s entry into NATO in 1982 and the European Union in 1986. Spain consistently ranks as the EU’s fourth most populous and economically significant nation by […]

US Response to Putinist Ideology in Russia

Alliance for Citizen Engagement

Introduction Amid Russia’s ongoing conflict and occupation of Ukraine, the underlying motives driving the war have become increasingly evident. A significant focal point has emerged around the personal aspirations and geopolitical perspective of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Putin’s authoritative leadership style has positioned him as a central figure in Russia’s actions and choices, where his […]

Introduction to Israel-US Relations

Alliance for Citizen Engagement

Fact Sheet A small country in terms of landmass, Israel spans 21,937 sq km in the Middle East, bordered by Egypt, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon. It stands as one of America’s robust economic allies, boasting a 2021 GDP of $488.5 billion and a 6.5% growth rate in 2022. With a population exceeding nine million, Israel […]