Table.Briefings

Feature

China's military will grow faster than the economy

The National People's Congress opening day in Beijing is the day of numbers. Alongside the plans for economic growth, the military budget is also presented. The latter arouses fears and concerns – especially in the region.

By Michael Radunski

UN Environment Assembly: dispute over solar geoengineering

For the second time, a push to globally assess and discuss the application of solar geoengineering SRM has failed at the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA). Countries distrust each other and argue over the scope and purpose of an investigation. Meanwhile, other actors are making moves.

By Goswami Urmi

USA: insurance companies surrendering to climate damage

In the USA, an increasing number of insurers are refusing coverage for property damage caused by rain and fire. As a result, many victims of severe weather events are left without insurance coverage. The dilemma: Risks are nearly uninsurable – or they make policies so expensive that nobody buys them.

By Isabel Adler

The People's Congress becomes a bit North Korean

China's Premier will not hold a press conference after the National People's Congress. This shows the current state of affairs in China: Intransparency is increasing, whilst the willingness to answer questions is decreasing.

By Michael Radunski