Prompts

This is the hardest prompt yet, I think. Oof.

1) Defend the EPA.

2) Predict emerging global powers.

3) Explain why safety is overdone.


2) Turkey: strong economic growth, a large population, and a relatively strong, secular government have rendered this nation a recent economic powerhouse. Its policy of "zero problems with neighbors" and its unique relations with sub-Saharan Africa, notably Somalia, have given it a powerful geopolitical niche. The likelihood of European Union membership further bolsters economic and political prowess of the nation.
BUT: Three main threats exist. First, Kurd conflicts (PKK, notably) currently destabilize the nation. Second, the Syrian conflict and other refugee-generating issues reduce the integrity of Turkish borders. Third, a recent alleged coup highlights underlying weaknesses in the government and its dual vulnerability to Islamists and the military.

Indonesia: a booming population, intense economic growth, and manufacturing and technological prowess will bring economic and political power to Indonesia, barring major disaster. This island nation is the fourth most populous in the world and is located in the heart of ASEAN, bringing extensive export and import markets, especially in low end and tech manufacturing.
BUT: Fundamental Islamism has been on the rise in Indonesia. Additionally, the nation is very vulnerable to global warming. Finally, displaced persons-- both internally and externally-- seem likely to increase in number.

The entirety of Sub-Saharan Africa (excluding the most unstable nations-- Mali, Cote d'Ivoire, Somalia, DRC and Rwanda): a hugely untapped source of human capital, this vast region has historically been used merely for its considerable natural resources. Foreign investors, however, especially Chinese, are beginning to invest in manufacturing and export farming in sub-Saharan Africa, noting the economic illogic of ignoring this labor supply.
Disclaimer: Africa is not a country. Sub-Saharan Africa is not a country. It is inherently problematic to group these nations, but just as ASEAN nations follow certain trends, so too do certain African nations. Excluded from this group are Northern African nations (i.e. Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Libya) despite their considerable potential for growth.
BUT: Political instability and ethnic conflict continue to plague much of the region. Exploitative behavior, both by Chinese investors (see S Afr mining strike) and by Westerners, will retard economic growth. Finally, domestic protectionism and suspicion may impede foreign investment.

Those are probably the big ones. BRICS, of course, especially B, I, and S, will experience huge growth. Central Asian Republics seem poised for growth, Southeast Asia seems to be doing relatively well, and some indicators suggest that Eastern Europe may be ascendant.