The article argues that the Federal Reserve's recent rate hike decision, while justifiable on inflation grounds, highlights a critical lack of an underlying, transparent policy framework. The core problem is that the Fed's decisions appear discretionary, leading to market uncertainty because the committee's judgment, rather than clear data, dictates policy shifts. The author proposes that the Fed adopt a formal monetary policy rule—an algebraic formula linking the target rate to indicators like inflation and unemployment—to replace subjective guidance. Implementing such a rule would provide market predictability, enhance transparency, and shield the Fed from political attacks by making deviations from the standard easily quantifiable.
Qatar’s Deepening Persecution of the Baha'i
English Summary
Qatar is executing a systematic campaign of 'religious erasure' against its Baha'i minority, a pattern of discrimination that has historically targeted the community. Key evidence includes the mass denial and curtailment of residency and work permits, leading to the imminent expulsion of a significant portion of the Baha'i population, alongside unlawful detentions and legal harassment. Policy implications suggest that the U.S. government should condemn these severe violations of religious freedom and incorporate human rights concerns into its diplomatic and strategic engagement with Qatar.
中文摘要
卡塔尔正在對其巴海教少數族群實施系統性的「宗教抹除」運動，這是一種歷史上針對該社群的歧視模式。關鍵證據包括大規模否決和削減居留及工作許可，導致大量巴海教徒面臨迫在眉睫的驅逐風險，此外還伴隨著非法拘禁和法律騷擾。政策意涵顯示，美國政府應譴責這些嚴重侵犯宗教自由的行為，並將人權關切納入其與卡塔尔的外交和戰略參與中。
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