The key to combating extremism is prevention. But what are the conditions that lead youth to become radicalised?
While the French president has won public approval and international backing for the fight against IS, differences persist about the necessity of coordinating with Russia.
Assad is responsible for the damage being caused to Syria, but he is not the only one. Negotiators must reconsider their agreement over the fate of Syrian state institutions.
Sharing responsibility for the refugee crisis is a first step, but it remains unclear if EU members will work towards resolving its root cause.
The army, now in government with international support, is increasing its economic power and is free to impose the conditions it deems suitable.
The political future of the region is unclear, because it depends on the evolution of different political systems. What degree of secularisation/Islamism will these societies allow?