19. Contemporary authoritarianism and cross-border threats
Individuals & institutions
Russia, China, North Korea, neighboring states
Events & dates
Russia annexed Crimea in 2014 and launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. China asserts claims over Taiwan and the South China Sea. North Korea continues missile and nuclear programs.
Consequences & historical significance
These conflicts involve security interests, nationalism and military power as well as ideology; they cannot be explained by economic labels alone.