Which Way is the Exit? (Cover Story)
The date is set for a handover to the Iraqis, but everything else is in trouble. A TIME guide to the hurdles the U.S. faces in ensuring a smooth transition


Taking A Stand (Reforming China | Politics)
A new breed of activists is emerging, eager to test the limits of what can—and cannot—be changed in today's China

An Almost Free Trade Agreement
As a landmark U.S.–Australian deal is published, Time presents a no-nonsense guide through the forest of fine print


In Leaps and Bounds (Arts/Festivals)
The Adelaide Festival's first Aboriginal director injects some spirit and vaults cultural divides