Relationships, Rivalries, & Resources

Often times, the United States finds itself developing foreign policy without the knowledge of pre-existing relationships between major players. The International Relations Education Program (IREP) is an exclusive project examining relations between countries. The Relationships, Rivalries, & Resources page will house insights from our experts that better inform policymakers on what exactly underpins global friendships and rivalries. Insight and analysis provided will help influence increasingly well-informed and effective foreign policy for global benefit.

Geopolitical Relationships

Explore the relationships that influence US Foreign Policy.

Wilson Memos are one to two-page memos created specifically for Congressional staff to quickly receive rich analysis on a wide range of issues. See below our latest Wilson Memos on topics relevant to our International Relations Education Program (IREP) focused on understanding key geopolitical relationships beyond the context of conventional US policy.

Recent Wilson Memos

The Relationship Between Russia & the Baltics
Following our most recent program, the International Relations Education Program (IREP) featuring experts from the Kennan Institute, this Wilson Memo provides Congressional staff with an in-depth analysis of the relationship between Russia and the Baltic countries (Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania). Included in the memo is insight on Russian interests in the Baltic states and its capabilities for conflict escalation. The memo goes on to examine the likelihood of conflict between Russian and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) forces and concludes with US policy options. Click on the link below to read the full memo.
https://www.wilsoncenter.org/publication/wilson-memo-relationship-between-russia-baltics
The Unique Relationship Between China & North Korea
Following our most recent program, the International Relations Education Program (IREP) featuring experts from the Asia Program and Kissinger Institute, this Wilson Memo provides Congressional staff with an in-depth analysis of the unique relationship between China and North Korea. Included in the memo is background on the fundamental ideology of North Korea, focused primarily on the concept of "Juche." This memo also analyzes how China views North Korea and vice versa. Finally, the memo concludes with realistic expectations for the future and US policy options. Click on the link below to read the full memo.
https://www.wilsoncenter.org/publication/wilson-memo-unique-relationship-between-china-north-korea
The Developing Relationship Between China & Africa
Following the International Relations Education Program (IREP) featuring experts from the Africa Program, this Wilson Memo provides Congressional staff with an in-depth analysis of the developing relationship between China and Africa. The memo touches on China's growing influence on the continent, especially through foreign direct investment. The memo goes on to explore the realities of Chinese loans and dispels the 'debt trap' myth. Included in the document are the tangible, practical offerings from China which make the developing relationship more attractive to African countries. Finally, the memo concludes with Africa's attitude for US engagement, policy options, and opportunities in the areas of education and public diplomacy.
https://www.wilsoncenter.org/publication/wilson-memo-developing-relationship-between-china-africa