R. Minder, G. Dyer & J. Anderlini, Financial Times | December 4, 2008
 China Investment Corporation, a fund that manages foreign exchange reserves for China, says it does not dare invest in western financial institutions. ++ When “government policies change every week, how can you expect that to make me confident?,” said Lou Jiwei, head of the fund. ++ US officials are trying to convince China not to let its currency, the renminbi, devalue, as this would give China an unfair export advantage. ++ Expectations of a falling renminbi may trigger a sell-off, which could force China to sell US Treasury bonds.
Peter Fromuth, frm. State Dept. Official | December 4, 2008
 A new strategy to tackle Somali piracy has become imperative. ++ A blockade with patrolling naval ships at each major port has the best hope of counteracting the pirates’ wealth and anonymity ++ Customary international law can be exercised to allow states to use force against pirates on the high seas. ++ A clear UNSC mandate would also facilitate cohesive action from EU and a multinational flotilla in the area. ++ A blockade must be seriously considered by the UN as a means of shutting down Somali piracy once and for all.
Editorial, The New York Times | December 4, 2008
 “Global Trends 2025: A Transformed World” portends a severely diminished role for the US and a planet hobbled by multipolarity. ++ The irony is that the Bush administration, in their attempt to further American preeminence, has done everything imaginable to engender the expectations of the report. ++ The good news is “the end results are not inevitable.” ++ A different report, composed by Obama advisors, states, “leadership is not an entitlement; it has to be earned.” ++ Mr. Obama understands these challenges.
Editorial, The Hindu | December 4, 2008
 As Barack Obama’s chief political rival – more so than even John McCain – Hillary Clinton’s appointment to the role of Secretary of State is a bold move. ++ Nevertheless, she doesn’t represent the face of change Obama promised during the election cycle. ++ In the least, the “politically and intellectually equipped” Ms. Clinton represents a drastic departure from the calamitous unilateralism and militarism of President Bush and “will restore diplomacy to its due place.” ++ She must remember, though, that it is Obama who sets the vision.
Chris Patten, Chancellor of Oxford (in French) | December 4, 2008
 Europe may well come to regret the multilateralism it has been longing for from the US now that it is finally on the horizon. ++ European responses are uncertain should Obama call for funds, troops, and solidarity. ++ The EU should show willingness to intervene in the Congo. ++ Privileged European voting rights in the IMF should be rescinded to better reflect global GDP. ++ By putting into practice the multilateralism which it claims to so desperately desire, the EU will get off to a good start with the next US administration.
Brookings Institution | November 2008
Barnett R. Rubin & Ahmed Rashid | Foreign Affairs | November 2008
Tim Jackson | New Scientist | November 2008
Alexander Nicoll & Sarah Johnstone | IISS | October 2008
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