Publications Review 25.09.2014. Cyber issues, Brazil's economy, Black sea region, Islamic state

This digest features several publication reviews on cyber issues, an edition on Brazilian economic competitiveness, Russian comeback as a naval power in the waters of the Black sea, a new dataset on Pacific transport connectivity and trade exchanges, another extensive analytical piece on transforming monetary system and a closing issue on Islamic state as a possible threat to Africa.

Here is a Cyber Security Intelligence September Newsletter. Various topics are covered in this issue: from the pending necessity to reform NSA system after Snowden, aftermath of the Malaysian Boeing drama to Russian spyware tapping Ukrainian government. Find out more and choose a topic to your interest and liking.

A more rigid and in-depth paper on cyber warfare in our days. Published under aegis of DIIS, it advocates a modern approach to how we can make use of Clausewitz’s heritage in war theory in the cyber domain. Here one is to find a new approach to political nature of cyberattacks, tactical aims and tools that hackers have at their disposal.

A rare and interesting online edition of The Brazilian economy issue published by Getulio Vargas Foundation. Political, economic, international matters are covered here from the Brazilian perspective. Being the strongest economy on the continent, Brazil is striving to become globally competitive. What are national strong points and gaps? Go to the link and click the August issue, the very first one.

Igor Delanoe has published yet another paper of Taylor and Francis online. It deals with a possible Russian triumphant comeback to the Black sea, which the Western countries are not able to govern according to their plans. The piece brings up various aspects of a maritime power. According to the author, Russia has all the necessary assets to become one and dominate the region. 

A curious and well-based essay on transport connectivity among Pacific Economies. Building arguments and analysis around ship and flight datasets, the paper gives an extensive picture of transport routes and how they influence Pacific trade. A fresh and new approach to the economy in the Pacific region.

In the previous digest we have already touched upon the question of how to transform international monetary system and create more flexible and needs-oriented mechanisms. The risk-management structures need a deep overhaul. This analysis suggests a number of actions that the IMF and FSB should take to strengthen their cooperation and effectiveness, and highlights some of the problems created when no single agency has overall responsibility for the regulatory oversight of the international financial system.

Islamic state is one of the most fearsome extremist organization now. It has managed to spread its influence and control in Iraq and Syria. What are the next steps and how the international community should react? Here are some ideas why Africa should be aware of the IS from Institute for security studies.

Digest Editor: Maria Gurova, RIAC Program Assistant