Democracy Can Be Both Curse and Cure; America’s Middle East; The Skill of Statecraft
Foreign Affairs Books & Reviews

February 21, 2026 | View in Browser

 

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Studying for government job examinations, Prayagraj, India, June 2024

The Cracks in the India Model

Democracy Can Be Both Curse and Cure

 By Yamini Aiyar

 

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America’s Middle East: The Ruination of a Region

Lynch offers a scathing critique of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East since the end of the Cold War.

Reviewed by Lisa Anderson

 
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Great Power Diplomacy: The Skill of Statecraft From Attila the Hun to Kissinger

This richly researched book offers a series of detailed portraits of leaders who used the tools of diplomacy to fend off rival great powers.

Reviewed by G. John Ikenberry

 

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Understanding Stablecoins

 

This paper offers a comprehensive overview of stablecoins. It provides an overview of existing stablecoin arrangements and use-cases, examines their potential benefits and risks, and outlines ongoing international efforts to develop policy frameworks. The work builds on previous IMF analysis and reiterates policy. It then provides an overview of emerging laws and regulations in selected countries.

 

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Cover image of “Understanding Stablecoins”

Understanding Stablecoins

This paper offers a comprehensive overview of stablecoins. It provides an overview of existing stablecoin arrangements and use-cases, examines their potential benefits and risks, and outlines ongoing international efforts to develop policy frameworks. The work builds on previous IMF analysis and reiterates policy. It then provides an overview of emerging laws and regulations in selected countries.

Cover image of “Understanding Stablecoins”
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The Broken China Dream: How Reform Revived Totalitarianism

Pei investigates China’s shift away from decades of reform and neo-authoritarianism toward a new form of totalitarianism.

Reviewed by Elizabeth Economy

 

The Age of Change: How Urban Youth Are Transforming African Politics

Gavin’s slim book offers a useful primer on how Africa’s young people are disrupting and reinvigorating African cultural and political life.