Published December 14, 2011 | By Alessandra Wasserstrom and Raphaël Jaeger

Due to Nepal’s relatively recent transition to a democratic government, it continues to experience teething troubles in its minority coalition government. In 2010, it faced many problems resulting from both physical and rhetorical clashes with the Maoist minority but has since resolved those issues. Significant progress has been made recently, notably with the election of a new prime minister and the completion of an agreement concerning former Maoist rebels. Nepal continues to experience severe problems with food security, as large portions of its rural population are stricken with both high unemployment rates and lack of food availability leading to increased migration to urban areas. Recently, the government has begun to address this problem, although improvements are slow. Moreover, Nepal has a very high rate of corruption among government officials, further delegitimizing the government and not allowing for essential aid and funds to reach those most in need.

Published May 20, 2011 | By Alessandra Wasserstrom

After having enjoyed a generally stable growth rate and a steady flow of European Union development funds during much of the previous decade, 2010 saw the Greek economy fall into a tailspin. The government has begun to institute strict austerity measures, in order to meet obligations to its creditors. This has led to an inevitable backlash from a hostile public, reluctant to incur the effects of public spending cuts. Greece has witnessed sporadic violent protests in response to the austerity program. Throughout 2010, Greece was beset with widespread strikes, protests and even some riots that have lasted multiple days at a time and have seriously disrupted daily life. Greece will likely continue to face ongoing economic — and as a result, social and political — instability for some time to come.

Published May 17, 2011 | By Alessandra Wasserstrom

Due to Tunisia’s strong economic connections to Europe, it has been hit hard by the economic recessions that has affected multiple European countries. This has created high unemployment and rising food prices and ultimately deep dissatisfaction and unrest amongst the people. This discontent came to the fore when protests erupted in December 2010, ultimately leading to the ouster of long-standing president, Zine Ben Ali. The resignation of Ben Ali has left a power vacuum as the Tunisian people struggle to find an appropriate form of governance to fill the gaping leadership hole while searching for a solution of their economic woes. Regional instability — not least the ongoing conflict across the border in Libya — will also continue to undermine Tunisia’s transition.

Published May 12, 2011 | By Alessandra Wasserstrom

President Rafael Correa’s staunch socialist policies have put a strain on the country both economically and politically. Correa has angered both actors inside and outside the country, which has led to widespread protests throughout his two terms. Elected to his second term in 2009, Correa declared Ecuador’s default on billions of dollars in loans, adding to the countries economic pressures. Correa also extended his power via a referendum, undermining the legitimacy of the government. Tension between aggrieved unions and social groups and Correa supporters has steadily been rising, compounding the effects of continued uneven economic development. Correa faced an attempted coup in September 2010 and declared a state of emergency during this time.