International Affairs

RAND has been conducting research on international policy for more than 50 years. This research primarily focuses on countries other than the U.S. and includes security and military policy as well as social and economic policy. View all International Affairs Documents Available Online or find general information at Reports and Bookstore.

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Security in Iraq: Analyzing Emerging Threats as U.S. Forces Leave — Feb. 5, 2010

As it withdraws troops from Iraq, the United States must work not only to maintain security in that nation, but also focus on how the action will impact other regional interests.

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Troubled Partnership: U.S.-Turkish Relations in an Era of Global Geopolitical Change — Feb. 3, 2010

The United States can take a major step in improving the security environment in the Middle East and Persian Gulf by giving new impetus to revitalizing its security partnership with Turkey, which plays a critical role in four areas of increasing strategic importance to the U.S.

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RAND Palestine Initiative Releases Overview of "The Arc" — May 21, 2009

The RAND Palestine Initiative, a multidisciplinary team of experts from the RAND Corporation that has been working with Palestinians, Israelis, and the international community, presents key aspects of "The Arc," options for strengthening the physical infrastructure for a new Palestinian state.

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View All »Related News & Commentary

February 5, 2010: Factors Contributing to Iraq's Security After U.S. Forces Withdraw

February 3, 2010: Improved U.S.-Turkish Relations Are Vital to Better Security in the Persian Gulf and Middle East

February 3, 2010: Stabilization from the Bottom Up, By Seth G. Jones

January 26, 2010: Reconstructing Haiti, By James Dobbins

January 21, 2010: Managing Catastrophic North Korea Risks, By Bruce W. Bennett (The Korea Herald)

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Securing Health: Lessons from Nation-Building Missions

RAND researchers analyzed the health components of seven post–World War II nation-building efforts conducted after major conflicts-Germany, Japan, Somalia, Haiti, Kosovo, Afghanistan, Iraq-and found that two factors are correlated with successful health outcomes: planning and coordination, and infrastructure and resources.

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War and Escalation in South Asia

This monograph highlights key factors in South Asia imperiling U.S. interests, and suggests how and where the U.S. military might play an expanded, influential role. It suggests seven steps the military might take to better advance and defend U.S. interests in South Asia, the Middle East, and Asia at large. Washington should intensify involvement in South Asia and become more influential with the governments there. Given the area's potential for violence, it should also shape part of the U.S. military to meet potential crises.