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This article by CSS' Matthias Leese analyses the current political re-​problematization of identity in the EU. Engaging the recently adopted interoperability initiative that is set to biometrically verify and cross-​validate identity records between all European border management, migration, and security databases, it argues that interoperability presents a shift from traditional modes of identity production at the border towards a digital space of identity management.

In this chapter, Simon Mason aims to contribute to reflections of policy makers and the wider public who seek to understand or shape their state’s mediation profile. It outlines a series of questions that highlight key dimensions of a country’s mediation profile, such as motivation, role, resources and strategy.

Climate change plays a crucial role in increasing the risk and extent of wildfires. While the US and Australia have been particularly affected this year, Europe will increasingly face similar challenges, argues Christine Eriksen in this CSS Policy Perspective.

China’s recent foray into multilateral banking brings the country multiple financial and geopolitical benefits, argue Chris Humprey and Linda Maduz in this CSS Analysis. The early years of operations suggest that the potential of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and the New Development Bank is considerable – both as international funding mechanisms and as platforms of international cooperation, including with Europe.

According to this CSS Analysis by Lisa Watanabe, as the US recalibrates its Middle Eastern engagements, Russia and China are building up their presence in the region. While not seeking to supplant the US, both powers will need to be increasingly taken into account by Europe as the latter seeks to advance its interests in the Middle East.

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an unprecedented spread of facial coverings while simultaneously accelerating the adoption of digital surveillance tools, including facial recognition systems (FRS). However, whereas the facemasks will disappear again, FRS are not only poised to stay, but to keep on expanding. Consequently, governments should address the issues of bias and robustness by testing and certifying FRS.