In this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski discuses US policy on Taiwan with Wilson Center Indo-Pacific Program Director, Shihoko Goto. They explore the complexities and nuances of maintaining strong ties to a most important US trade partner, while acknowledging the "one China principle."  They also discuss China's efforts to increase its own economic ties to Taiwan and the risk-reward factors related to Chinese investment. Additionally, Goto provides insights into the challenge of helping Taiwan remain secure while avoiding direct confrontation with China. As the title says, it's complicated!

In this episode of the Need to Know, host John Milewski discusses the recent direct attack by Iran on Israel and its implications for the region with the Wilson Center’s Middle East Program Director Merissa Khurma. She provides insights into the shifting dynamics and potential consequences of this escalation, highlighting the delicate balancing act for countries like Jordan and the critical role of US leadership in pursuing de-escalation and stability.

In this episode of the Need to Know, host John Milewski explores the evolving landscape of warfare shaped by unmanned aerial vehicles with his guest, Dr. Jack Watling. Dr. Watling is a Wilson Center Global Fellow and senior research fellow at the Royal United Services Institute. They discuss a new study, co-authored by Jack, that focuses on the impact of UAVs on land forces, drawing insights from contemporary conflicts like the one in Ukraine. From precision strikes to procurement challenges, this discussion navigates the complexities of adapting military strategies to technological advancements. It also provides valuable information for lawmakers who will be making funding decisions on weapons systems that are changing the way wars are conducted.

In this episode of Need to Know, we focus on Pakistan's political and economic situation, as well as its relationship with the United States. Michael Kugelman, Deputy Director of the Wilson Center's IndoPacific program, covers topics such as the health of democracy in the wake of the recent election, the country's ongoing economic crisis, and the value of US support for democracy and human rights. Kugelman highlights the challenges and complexities facing Pakistan and provides insights into the current state of affairs.

In this episode of the Need to Know John Milewski takes a look into the world of electric vehicles (EVs) and the dynamic supply chains essential to their development and manufacturing. Joined by a panel of experts, including Duncan Wood, Jasper Jung, and Sham Kunjur, shed light on the impact of the evolution of EV supply chains, the impact of legislation like the Inflation Reduction Act, and the importance of partnerships and investment in critical minerals processing infrastructure. 

In this episode, we delve into the findings from a study conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Resources that examined the fiscal impact of refugees and asylum seekers on the economy over a 15-year period. Many will be surprised by the overwhelmingly positive findings. John Thon Majok, Director of the Wilson Center's Refugee and Forced Displacement Initiative, provides insights and analysis that could have significant implications for policy decisions. The full report: https://aspe.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/documents/28fe4e756499bdab08b4e6cb3b952e22/aspe-report-refugee-fiscal-impact.pdf

In this episode of the Need to Know podcast from the Wilson Center, Ambassador Mark Green, President and CEO of the Wilson Center, shares his recent firsthand observations from Ukraine, marking the two-year anniversary of Russia's invasion. From the war-torn streets to underground schools in subway stations, Ambassador Green provides a vivid account of the destruction caused by Russian attacks and the courageous response of Ukrainians rebuilding their lives amidst ongoing conflict. He emphasizes the urgent need for international support, both humanitarian and military, to address the staggering displacement crisis and bolster Ukraine's efforts to resist Russian aggression.

In this episode of Need to Know, Eddy Acevedo, Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor to the President and CEO of the Wilson Center, discusses the year ahead for the U.S. Congress. He lists other priorities Congress is juggling in addition to appropriations and supplemental funding. Acevedo shares insights from his experience working on the Hill and emphasizes the importance of bipartisan collaboration. He also touches on the role of Congress in shaping foreign policy and talks about the critical need for reliable information for those making public policy decisions. 

In this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski explores the implications of the conflict between Hamas and Israel on the Abraham Accords with Merissa Khurma, director of the Wilson Center's Middle East program. They review the status of the accords before the Hamas attack and how things have changed since the outbreak of war. They also explore the possible long-term consequences of the war on the future of the accords and their promise of greater regional stability. 

In this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski, dives into the critical issue of the United States' involvement in the global effort to combat malaria with Wilson Center CEO, Ambassador Mark Green. Ambassador Green explores the progress made over the years and the ongoing challenges in the fight against malaria, while highlighting the humanitarian and economic reasons behind the US's vital role in this battle and the importance of international coordination and continued support for malaria eradication efforts.

In this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski discusses the state of affairs in Afghanistan, two years after the U.S. withdrawal, with Wilson Center South Asia Institute Director Michael Kugelman. Kugelman paints a dire picture of the situation under Taliban rule, particularly as it relates to food security and the status of women. They also discuss the possibility of Afghanistan once again becoming a safe haven for terrorists and whether there is any reason for optimism about possible changes within the Taliban regime.