Policy Briefs

YIP's policy briefs provide clear, nonpartisan summaries of key national issues and policies. Designed for accessibility, they distill complex topics into concise, understandable analyses, bridging the gap between intricate policy debates and a broad audience. These briefs embody our commitment to informed, unbiased discourse, crucial for fostering a well-informed public and encouraging active engagement in policy discussions.

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Briefs harmonize diverse political perspectives in policy teams of 4-6 for insightful policy solutions.

Recent Policy Briefs

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Emerging Threats in Drinking Water: Microplastics and Pharmaceuticals on the EPA Watchlist

Public Health Policy

Adithi Balaji

This brief analyzes the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s addition of microplastics and pharmaceuticals to its drinking water contaminant watchlist. As emerging contaminants in drinking water gain public and media concern, examining the watchlist’s implications serve as a step towards protecting American’s wellbeing.

The Take It Down Act and the Future of Online Safety

Social Policy

Lilian Tsai

This brief will analyze the new development surrounding AI-generated media from the White House, a change that has criminalized the distribution and use of deepfakes. It will consider the history as well as the tried policy of the issue.

Ukrainian War Persists: Strikes and Drones Exchange, Negotiations Pending, Tides Turn

Rapid Response

Assata Foday

This brief examines the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War, with particular focus on the escalating exchange of drone and missile strikes between Russia and Ukraine, the fragile state of ceasefire negotiations brokered in part by the United States, and the shifting momentum on the battlefield as of mid-2026. The persistence of the conflict despite repeated short-term truces underscores the deep mistrust between the two parties and the complexity of achieving a lasting peace settlement. The brief analyzes current military dynamics, the role of drone warfare in shaping frontline outcomes, diplomatic efforts by the Trump administration and European powers, and the political stakes heading into potential long-term negotiations.

Educational Programs Within Prison

Criminal Justice

Aram Jung

This policy brief analyzes the role of education in juvenile correctional facilities, evaluates how educational access affects recidivism and reentry outcomes, and considers how these programs can support broader public safety goals.

U.S. and Iran Ceasefire Consistently Fragmented as Strikes Exchange

Rapid Response

Assata Foday

This brief examines the ongoing ceasefire negotiations between the United States and Iran following continued military exchanges throughout May and June 2026. It analyzes ceasefire violations, diplomatic efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, regional security concerns, and the economic and geopolitical implications of prolonged instability. This brief also evaluates current policy discussion surrounding Iran’s nuclear program sanctions relief, and international mediation efforts aimed at preventing a return to full-scale conflict.

Nuclear Energy: Implementation and Effects

Environmental Policy

Piranavee Pirathiviraj

This brief covers the role of nuclear energy in the United States, focusing on its historical development, current resurgence, and key policy challenges.