Brookings: Topics - Democracy Promotion

Intra-Party Democracy in China: Should We Take It Seriously?

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Cheng Li examines the concept of "intra-Party democracy," which China's leaders have recently characterized as the lifeblood of the Chinese Communist Party, and as crucial to its continued primacy. Li argues that intra-party democracy is important for institutionalizing the new rules and norms of Chinese elite politics, and that it is an experiment which will have profound implications for China's political future.

Velvet Revolutions from Prague to Tehran: What, if Anything, Should We Do about Them?

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 09:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 06, 2009, 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM

As we approach the twentieth anniversary of Czechoslovakia’s Velvet Revolution, countries such as Iran, Russia, China and Cuba are trying to learn how to prevent similar "velvet revolutions" in their own countries. On October 6, the Brookings Institution hosted a discussion on the challenges and opportunities posed by nonviolent civic movements for political change around the world.

Fighting Radicalism, not 'Terrorism': Root Causes of an International Actor Redefined

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the years since the September 11th attacks, Western policymakers, analysts and academics have debated the best approaches to confronting and ending terrorism. Brookings Fellow Omer Taspinar argues that the global fight against extremist violence must move beyond the "war on terror" to a broader strategy of fighting radicalism with human development - an approach that would address the political, economic and social conditions that foment violent radicalism.

Promoting Democracy, out of Fashion in Washington?

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Brookings Doha Visiting Fellow Anouar Boukhars examines recent commentary that the Obama administration is distancing itself from democracy promotion in the Middle East. Boukhars finds that these claims are largely untrue, and points to examples of continued funding political reform as well as why some goals of the Bush administration needed amendment.

The Democratization Process in Morocco

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 12:30:00 GMT

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September 17, 2009, 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

Morocco has often been hailed as a model for democratic reform in an otherwise authoritarian region. In order to understand better the progress Morocco has undergone since the 1990s, when it started on the path of democratic reform, the Saban Center’s Patkin Visiting Fellow in Arab Reform, Maâti Monjib, led a policy luncheon discussion regarding the various advances and obstacles associated with Moroccan democratization.

Afghanistan: Measuring Progress Toward Peace

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following the important August 20 elections in Afghanistan, Michael O'Hanlon and Bruce Riedel write that this is likely the final fresh start for the U.S. and NATO. With support for the war falling at home and abroad, they explore how progress should be quantified in Afghanistan and urge patience regarding the mission there.

Prospects for Afghanistan's Future: Assessing the Outcome of the Afghan Presidential Election

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 15:00:00 GMT

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August 25, 2009, 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM

The outcome of Afghanistan's presidential election remains in doubt, but most agree that it doesn't matter who wins as much as how the victory occurs. Brookings hosted a panel of experts, moderated by Martin Indyk, to discuss the outcome of the Afghan election. The panel analyzed the result of the election and examined its impact on the future of the country and the conflict.

Democracy In Egypt: Necessary Ingredient in a U.S.-Egyptian Partnership

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak recently visited Washington for the first time since 2004. Tamara Cofman Wittes and Michele Dunne examine how he and President Obama can achieve shared goals for the Middle East. Wittes and Dunn analyze areas in which the relationship could be improved and offer suggestions for strengthening the partnership with both the citizens and government of Egypt.

The 2009 Afghan Elections and the Future of the International Community in Afghanistan

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Jeremy Shapiro argues pundits should focus more on what the elections in Afghanistan say about the international community than what they mean for the country. He cautions that actions by international actors are often seen from the inside as rigging elections to a pre-determined outcome and concludes that if these efforts to build a democracy fail it may help Afghanistan become a terrorist state once again.

A Nigerian-American Partnership Beckons

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following State Hillary Clinton's visit to Nigeria at the end of her 11-day tour of African nations, Richard Joseph says that Nigeria has a historic opportunity to address its myriad problems. "Nigeria and the United States," Joseph writes, "could initiate a new era of cooperation based on shared commitments to constitutional democracy, the strengthening of open, multi-ethnic and multi-religious societies and laying the foundations for sustainable and equitable growth."

Democracy Promotion and America’s Key Arab Allies: Limits and Prospects

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 18:00:00 GMT

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July 28, 2009, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

The Brookings Doha Center hosted a discussion on democracy promotion and key U.S. allies in the Arab world. The panel was addressed by Roula Attar, the resident country director in Jordan for the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs and Anouar Boukhars, Brookings Doha Center visiting fellow. Hady Amr, director of the Doha Center, moderated the discussion.

Civil Society and Public Freedom in Jordan

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In a Saban Center Working Paper, former Todd G. Patkin Visiting Fellow Sameer Jarrah analyzes public freedoms in Jordan and points to the combination of state action and internal deficiencies within civic groups as the reasons for the stalled reform process. Jarrah argues that it is in the security interest of the Jordanian government to enable civic organizations because they can provide a counterbalance to extremist groups and serve as a productive outlet for citizen discontent.

Crisis in Honduras

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The June 28 military ousting of Honduran President Manuel Zelaya capped weeks of tension brought about by his attempt to amend the constitution to enable reelection. Kevin Casas-Zamora says this coup is a step backward for democracy in Latin America and he urges the United States to both pay close attention to the situation and to show friends and foes in the hemisphere that Washington sides with democracy.

Democratic Elections and Coalition Government? A View from Kenya

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 09:00:00 GMT

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June 12, 2009, 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM

On June 12, the Africa Growth Initiative at Brookings hosted Dr. Constance Freeman, regional director for East and Southern Africa of the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) in Nairobi who led a roundtable discussion on the recent elections in Kenya.

Democracy Gaining Momentum in China

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Though many believe China's drive toward democracy stagnated after the People's Liberation Army put down the 1989 Tiananmen Square demonstrations, Cheng Li argues otherwise. Li notes that while the political system is still constrained by party monopoly on power, lack of an independent judiciary and media censorship, China is making significant progress on the democratic front.

Crossroads on Cuba: Will Democracy or Sovereignty Prevail?

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ted Piccone writes that the future of the Organization of American States (OAS) depends on how it manages the readmission of Cuba to the regional organization. Piccone urges member states not to depart from the organization’s core democratic and human rights principles.

Democracy Promotion Under Obama: Lessons from the Middle East Partnership Initiative

Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Tamara Cofman Wittes and Andrew Masloski argue that the Obama administration should invest in the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) to advance America’s interests in a more stable, progressive and prosperous Middle East. By examining the record of MEPI, Wittes and Masloski show how it has overcome early deficits to create a small-scale, successful model of “democracy diplomacy” that integrates foreign assistance with foreign policy.

Obama Chooses Egypt for His Muslim World Speech

Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Tamara Cofman Wittes writes that the selection of Egypt for President Obama’s long-awaited speech to the Muslim world was not an easy choice, but it is a significant one. Wittes believes Egypt is a crucible for the challenges facing many Muslim societies and it embodies Washington's central dilemmas in the wake of Bush's Freedom Agenda.

The Democracy Function: How Egypt’s Changing Media Landscape is Influencing Domestic Politics

Wed, 06 May 2009 12:30:00 GMT

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May 06, 2009, 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

On May 6, the Saban Center at Brookings’ Project on U.S. Relations with the Islamic World was pleased to host Ford Foundation Visiting Fellow Mirette F. Mabrouk to talk about the changing landscape of Arab media, and its effect on Egyptian domestic politics.

Nigeria: Could Ekiti Voting Debacle Be Turning Point?

Mon, 04 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Marred by violence and intimidation, recent voting in the Ekiti state of Nigeria ended with Segun Oni of the Peoples Democratic Party emerging as the winner of the rerun governorship polls. Richard Joseph argues that if Nigeria is to establish its democracy on a firm basis, a major non-partisan national movement may be needed.

President Obama and the Summit of the Americas

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Key differences persist among the many countries of Latin America and the Caribbean. In the leadup to the fifth Summit of the Americas, Abraham Lowenthal says Obama would do well to remember Ronald Reagan's comment on returning from his first trip to South America as president: "These Latin American countries are all very different from each other."

Will Obama Retreat on Democracy in Latin America?

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the Summit of the Americas draws near, Ted Piccone analyzes Obama's debut before the hemisphere’s main gathering of democratically elected leaders and discusses what should come from the meeting. Piccone believes Obama should lead by example by implementing human rights reforms at home and by reminding colleagues they share a responsibility to follow universal democratic standards.

The Summit of the Americas and Democracy

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 15:57:55 GMT

In previewing the fifth Summit of the Americas, Ted Piccone notes that popular support for democracy and good governance is widespread in Latin America and that the United States has an opportunity to fix its approach to democracy assistance.

The Obama Administration and the Americas: Agenda for Change

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 15:30:00 GMT

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April 01, 2009, 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM

On April 1, Brookings hosted a panel discussion on the upcoming Summit of the Americas and the recently released book, The Obama Administration and the Americas: Agenda for Change (Brookings Institution Press, 2009), edited by Brookings Nonresident Senior Fellow Abraham F. Lowenthal, Brookings Senior Fellow and Deputy Director of Foreign Policy Theodore J. Piccone and University of Oxford Fellow Laurence Whitehead.

El Salvador’s Democratic Test

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kevin Casas-Zamora analyzes the election of Mauricio Funes as El Salvador's new president. Casas-Zamora argues Funes faces an uphill battle in preaching moderation, but that the U.S. would do well to welcome his election and offer him tangible support for key social reforms.

Engaging Ukraine

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 14:00:00 GMT

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March 17, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

On March 17, the Center on the United States and Europe (CUSE) hosted experts Steven Pifer, Anders Aslund and Jonathan Elkind for a discussion of their new Brookings policy paper, Engaging Ukraine in 2009. They also discussed the challenges facing Ukraine and offered recommendations to the Obama administration.

Iraq’s Year of Living Dangerously

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Barack Obama has announced plans to withdraw most U.S. troops from Iraq by the end of August 2010, while leaving between 35,000 to 50,000 troops through the end of 2011. Michael O'Hanlon and Kenneth Pollack, who recently returned from Iraq, note the country continues to make tremendous strides even if the war is not over. O'Hanlon and Pollack point to numerous challenges that could strain the situation and worsen conditions, but they argue this could be a final crucial test of our mission to stabilize Iraq enough for U.S. troop withdrawals.

U.S. Inauguration Inspires, Worries Taiwan

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

To the Taiwanese, the swearing-in of the 44th president of the US, Barack Obama, on Jan. 20 was a moment of profound inspiration and deep anxiety. CNAPS visiting fellow Shih-chung Liu examines the concerns of Taiwan regarding the future of their relationship with the U.S. under president Obama.

Europe, the United States, and Middle Eastern Democracy: Repairing the Breach

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Obama may enjoy a transatlantic honeymoon, but U.S.-European differences over Middle East policy—stemming mainly from the war in Iraq—leave deep scars in the relationship that he must now overcome. In a new Saban Center Analysis Paper, Tamara Cofman Wittes and Richard Youngs look beyond this highly charged deterioration in the transatlantic relationship in order to assess the real prospects for cooperation in promoting democracy in the Middle East.

Investing in Peace

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Carlos Pascual analyzes the imprecise science of peace-building and what it means to failed or near-failed states. Pascual outlines the stages of progress needed to increase the chances of sustainable peace and explores ten key steps to meet the challenges of stabilization and reconstruction.

An Autopsy of the Iraq Debacle: Policy Failure or Bridge Too Far?

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Byman examines whether the outbreak of an insurgency after the U.S. invasion of Iraq was an avoidable policy failure or whether the structural conditions surrounding the occupation made such an outbreak inevitable.

Latin America: Coming of Age

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Apart from the new pressures of the global financial crisis, the countries of Latin America are enjoying a period of economic growth, prosperity, and stable democracies. Yet these countries are also experiencing a great demographic change that will place more demand on their economies and governments. Leonardo Martinez-Diaz explains what these trends will mean for the region.

Democracies: In a League of their Own?

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ted Piccone outlines several versions of the League of Democracies concept that has reemerged during the 2008 U.S. presidential campaign. Though it finds support in both conservative and liberal circles, Piccone argues that the current framework will not succeed in today’s political environment. However, Piccone believes democracy promotion should remain a top priority for the next administration, and he offers recommendations for strengthening multilateral approaches.

U.S. Democracy Promotion after the Bush Years

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 14:00:00 GMT

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October 20, 2008, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

Supporting freedom abroad may be a bipartisan tenet of U.S. foreign policy, but Bush’s approach brought a great deal of criticism from both sides of the political spectrum. The question that faces the next President is: should the U.S. promote democracy abroad in the future, and if so, how? On October 20, the Brookings Institution will host a discussion on the future of U.S. democracy promotion featuring a distinguished panel of experts.

Moderate Islamists and the Future of Political Reform in the Arab World

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 12:30:00 GMT

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September 08, 2008, 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

On Monday, September 8, Khalil Al-Anani spoke about the role Islamist movements in the Arab world. His research explores the potential benefits of US engagement with Islamist groups and the most productive means by which the US can influence these groups to play a constructive role in political development in their countries.

The Dilemma of Egypt’s Liberals

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Khalil Al-Anani outlines the contours of Egypt’s liberal movement. He concludes that most of Egypt’s liberals are unwilling to pay the price of pushing for real reform in the country.

The United States and the Democracy Delusion

Tue, 19 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Khalil Al-Anani tackles the question of America’s commitment to democracy promotion, and he questions the strength of that commitment, especially when it comes in conflict with American strategic interests.

Islamist Movements: The Uses of Democracy

Sat, 16 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Khalil Al-Anani considers the question of the internal practice of democracy among Islamist groups in the Arab world. He concludes that Islamist parties often demonstrate a greater respect for democratic practice than secular and liberal parties.

Are Arabs Fit for Democracy?

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Khalil Al-Anani writes about the recent coup in Mauritania and about its ramifications for the Arab world. He argues that the country’s recent political history is proof of the need for the broader region to commit to democracy as the best means of achieving political balance and economic prosperity.

China: A Global Power

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 16:39:44 GMT

Calling the 2008 Olympic Games a wake-up call, Cheng Li says China is at the precipice of new openness and transparency. Change is critical, he adds, if China wants to be a serious global power.

The Role of Education in Cuba's Future

Thu, 07 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Andy Gomez demonstrates how the role of education in the future of Cuba will be one of the leading factors in transforming the psychological values and attitudes of the population in order to develop a civil society and eventually sustain a democratic state.

Crime in Latin America

Tue, 05 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Brookings expert Kevin Casas-Zamora writes that Latin American democracies must deal seriously with the mounting casualties of violence across the continent. He believes a comprehensive policy of reform among police forces, and the introduction of modern technology as well as more investment in civil society, can create lasting and sustainable solutions to crime.

Islamist Parties and Democracy

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Brookings expert Tamara Cofman Wittes writes that the usual division of Islamists into “moderate” and “extremist” categories is less helpful than a threefold classification that suggests a distinct policy approach toward each group.

Categories of Islamism

Wed, 30 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Tamara Cofman Wittes writes about her recent article in the Journal of Democracy where she outlines three distinct categories of Islamism.

Inheritance of Power, Fatwas, and Legitimacy in Egypt

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Khalil Al-Anani writes about the legitimacy of Egyptian leadership and living standards in the country. He argues that new leaders can rebuild legitimacy by embracing reform and opening up.

Presidential Candidate Positions Undeclared on Arab Democracy

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Khalil Al-Anani writes that both Barack Obama and John McCain have not yet made spreading democracy in the Arab world a top priority in their campaigns. Al-Anani discusses the importance of spreading democracy in Arab societies to promote stable, more secure governments.

Liberal Autocracy in Egypt

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Khalil Al-Anani discusses the shift from absolute totalitarianism to a liberal autocracy in Egypt since 2005 and what it means for the country's leaders and citizens.

The Arab Center: The Promise of Moderation

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 12:30:00 GMT

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June 16, 2008, 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

Arab moderates who embrace a future of regional peace and democracy appear to be losing ground in today’s Middle East. On June 16, the Saban Center for Middle East Policy at Brookings hosted Marwan Muasher, former foreign minister and deputy prime minister of Jordan and Thomas L. Friedman for a discussion of Muasher's new book, The Arab Center: The Promise of Moderation, and how to make a moderate future more possible in the Middle East.

The Future of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Rights in the Gulf

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 18:00:00 GMT

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June 11, 2008, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

In the context of the recently released Country Reports on Human Rights Practices for 2007 and the Trafficking in Persons Report 2008 by the United States Department of State, the Brookings Doha Center, a Project of the Saban Center for Middle East Policy at the Brookings Institution, organized a policy discussion with U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, Erica Barks-Ruggles, to speak on the subject of human rights in the Gulf.

A League of Democracies: Doomed to Fail?

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ted Piccone and Morton Halperin believe John McCain's proposal to create a League of Democracies is doomed to fail, partly because it revives a Cold War mentality pitting the "good guys against the bad." A better scenario, they argue, would be to reinvigorate the Community of Democracies around issues like economic incentives for developing democracies and confronting terrorism.

The Future of Democratic Reforms in Morocco

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 15:30:00 GMT

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June 05, 2008, 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM

On Thursday, June 5, 2008 the Saban Center for Middle East Policy at Brookings hosted a roundtable discussion with Ahmed Herzenni, the president of the Royal Advisory Council on Human Rights, and Fatiha Layadi, a member of the Moroccan parliament. The speakers provided insights gleaned from their efforts to advance civil and political rights in Morocco, and debated the next steps in the process of political reform.

Democracy, Not Weapons, Should Drive U.S.-Pakistan Agenda

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

America has failed democratic forces in Pakistan, writes Bruce Riedel. Under a military dictatorship that enabled the growth of al Qaeda, the country now poses the primary danger to America. The next president must go beyond threats and sanctions, Riedel urges, and help Pakistan find peace with its neighbors and itself through democracy.

America’s Presidential Elections and Implications for U.S.-Turkish Relations

Mon, 02 Jun 2008 14:00:00 GMT

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June 02, 2008, 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM

On June 2, the Brookings Institution collaborated with TUSIAD (Turkish Industrialists’ and Businessmen’s Association) to host a conference on “America’s Presidential Elections and Implications for U.S.-Turkish Relations”. During the panel discussions, a team of respected American and Turkish analysts considered factors that will determine next November’s elections for a new President of the United States, and how the various outcomes may affect the substance and dynamics of relations between the U.S. and Turkey beginning next January.

Purposes of a League of Democracies

Thu, 29 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In this video clip of a discussion held by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, Ivo Daalder explains what he sees as the four purposes of a proposed league (or concert) of democracies.

Turkey's Courts Should Respect the Will of the People

Sat, 17 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Despite the lack of attention in Washington, Mark Parris argues Turkey is headed towards crisis. Parris believes that if Turkey's constitutional court decides to close down the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), and ban its top leadership, "the loss will not be Turkey's alone."

Oil in the Gulf: Expanding Assets, Expanding Influence

Mon, 12 May 2008 12:30:00 GMT

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May 12, 2008, 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

On May 12, the Saban Center for Middle East Policy held a forum to discuss rising oil prices and the affects on the Gulf States. Featured speakers Fareed Mohamedi and Jean-Francois Seznec joined moderator and Brookings Senior Fellow Suzanne Maloney to debate the issues.

Fiction Meets Reality in Egypt

Tue, 06 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Andrew Masloski offers insight into the arrest of an Egyptian woman who created on online group calling for a protest through the social networking Web Site Facebook. He argues that the plan to publicize the protest was very effective and that it has exposed a crack in the Egyptian government's ability to prevent demonstrations.

Expand the U.S. Agenda toward Pakistan

Tue, 06 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Pakistan, as the most dangerous country in the world, poses a major challenge for the next U.S. president. Bruce Riedel argues in this new Opportunity 08 paper that the current administration’s policy toward Pakistan has not paid off. The next president, he says, must persuade the Pakistani people that "America supports democracy in their country and can be a long-term and reliable ally."

Freedom's Unsteady March : America's Role in Building Arab Democracy

Thu, 01 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Wittes dissects the Bush administration’s failure to advance freedom in the Middle East and lays out a better strategy for future efforts to promote democracy.

Freedom’s Unsteady March: America’s Role in Building Arab Democracy

Thu, 01 May 2008 16:00:00 GMT

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May 01, 2008, 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM

The Saban Center for Middle East Policy hosted Tamara Wittes for a discussion of her new book, Freedom’s Unsteady March: America’s Role in Building Arab Democracy. Wittes shows why the Bush administration was right to try to advance freedom in the region but also how it failed. And she lays out a smarter, more realistic long-term policy for democracy promotion in the Middle East.

Bolivar's Ghosts in Latin America

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ted Piccone discusses whether Latin America is the home of free-market democracy or the bastion of populist autocracy. Piccone argues that it is both, and many things in between. To further understand and deal with these issues, he believes that Washington needs to develop new policies toward the region.

Italian Elections and Silvio Berlusconi

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Federiga Bindi analyzes Silvio Berlusconi's recent return to power following elections where he won with an overwhelming majority. Bindi argues that the elections will have a lasting impact on Italy's future.

Economic and Political Development Report: Riyadh and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Tamara Cofman Wittes and Isobel Coleman met with business leaders, academics, journalists, and civic activists in Saudi Arabia. Among their key findings are that many Saudis welcomed the emergence of a more open atmosphere, pointing to King Abdullah’s ascension to the throne, dynamism in neighboring Gulf states, and a new “post-post-9/11” environment as key catalysts for the change. Yet, there was frustration at the unpredictability and arbitrariness of the newly expanded social and political space.

Winning the War of Ideas in the Islamic World

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 15:59:25 GMT

The U.S. mission in Iraq has reached the mid-decade mark, while U.S. troops continue to battle Taliban insurgents in Afghanistan. Senior Fellow Peter W. Singer says our next president will need a thoughtful plan for improving America’s relationship with the Islamic world.

Creating a New Public Diplomacy Cabinet Post

Thu, 20 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In the 21st century, spreading global public understanding of America’s institutions, culture and political values is as important as the work of traditional diplomats, writes William Galston. Galston proposes creating a Cabinet-level agency with the mission to make the case for America as a force for peace, prosperity and political reform.

Secularism & Theology: Islam & Politics

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Across the Muslim world, religious parties and candidates are claiming victory over secular governments with increasing frequency. From Iraq to Egypt to Turkey, Islamic influence is on the rise in politics. Tamara Wittes joins Kojo Nnamdi and guests to explore this trend and examine why these Islamic movements are winning public support.

Help Pakistanis Now or Risk Alienation

Thu, 13 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel offers that Pakistan's recent elections bring an opportunity to defeat al Qaeda in its home base and help turn a failing state around. He suggests that the United States should embrace the new leadership—even if it is far from perfect—by providing military, diplomatic and economic support for this fledgling democracy.

Reform in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Thu, 13 Mar 2008 12:30:00 GMT

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March 13, 2008, 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

The Saban Center for Middle East Policy hosted a luncheon roundtable discussion with Visiting Fellow Dr. Mai Yamani, of the Royal Institute of International Affairs. Yamani presented a draft of her forthcoming Middle East Memo entitled “Reform in Saudi Arabia.”

The Future of the Middle East

Tue, 04 Mar 2008 10:30:00 GMT

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March 04, 2008, 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM

On March 4, Brookings hosted journalist and author Robin Wright for a discussion of her new book, Dreams and Shadows: The Future of the Middle East. Wright focused on the pivotal countries and regions of Iraq, Iran, Syria, Egypt, Lebanon, the Palestinian territories and Morocco, drawing on first-hand interviews with many of the region’s key players.

Can We Export Democracy?

Fri, 29 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

At a November 26, 2007 Cato Book Forum, Tamara Wittes and Christopher J. Coyne examined the problems with installing democracy.

Middle East Development and Democracy

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 10:03:22 GMT

The promotion of democracy abroad is hugely important, but we must focus on the best way to promote it. Navtej Dhillon says we need to move away from military power as tool of democracy promotion and start examining the use of economic development as our strongest method of building stronger ties between the Middle East and the United States.

Superpower Interventions and Their Consequences for Democracy

Wed, 30 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

William Easterly, with co-authors Shanker Satyanath and Daniel Berger, tackle the impact of superpower interventions on democracy, examining the type of effect of the intervention and whether it matters whether the superpower is democratic or authoritarian.

Middle East Democracy: The Limits of Limited Reform

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Tamara Wittes and Michael McFaul discuss the Arab world's chance of creating stability by accepting and promoting democratic governments.

Can the Middle East Sustain Democracy?

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Charles Issawi was a leading economic historian of the Middle East and an astute commentator on history, politics, and human nature. In 1956 he published an article on the foundations of democracy and their absence from the Middle East. MESH member Adam Garfinkle offers a half-century retrospective on Issawi’s views. In the comments to this post Tamara Cofman Wittes and other members weigh in.

Talking Sense: Guidelines for International Democracy Promotion

Mon, 31 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

In this chapter from Democratic Responses to Terrorism (Routledge, 2007), Ted Piccone writes about democracy promotion as a goal of U.S. foreign policy, with a primary focus on the Islamic world. Piccone addresses and clarifies some assumptions about democracy promotion and offers guidelines for the future.

Democratic Consolidation in Taiwan: Inspired Political Reform Needs Effective Leadership

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Taiwan's government has several gaping imperfections that hinder political, economic, and social progress within the country. Richard Bush asserts political reforms, including altering the semi-presidential system, reducing government corruption, and evaluating recent electoral reforms are necessary to ensure stability within the country.

U.S.-Taiwan Relations: What’s the Problem?

Mon, 03 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Richard Bush discusses reasons for the failing relationship between the U.S. and Taiwan.

After Annapolis: Prospects for Peacemaking

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 16:00:00 GMT

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November 28, 2007, 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM

International leaders, including representatives from the United States, Israel and the Palestinian Authority, met in Annapolis to develop a foundation upon which the Israelis and Palestinians can move toward a negotiated peace agreement. Brookings hosted a discussion to assess the talks and address the future of the Middle East peace process. Saeb Erekat, the Palestinian Authority's chief negotiator, participated.

The Dilemma of Democracy in Lebanon

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Bilal Y. Saab and Elie D. Al-Chaer look at the similarities between Lebanon's political system and world politics. In this context, they suggest next steps for domestic political players to take the country down the path towards full-fledged democracy.

Saban Forum 2007

Sat, 03 Nov 2007 12:00:00 GMT

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November 03, 2007, 12:00 PM to 11/5/2007 12:00 PM

Just weeks before a U.S.-sponsored peace meeting on the Middle East in Annapolis, Maryland, the Saban Forum held its fourth annual U.S.-Israel dialogue from November 3-5, 2007, bringing a high-level, bipartisan U.S. delegation to Jerusalem for discussions with their Israeli counterparts on the theme of “War and Peace in the Middle East.”

The Old Turks’ Revolt: When Radical Secularism Endangers Democracy

Thu, 01 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Omer Taspinar argues that "the real challenge for Turkey will be to maintain a working democracy by keeping the military out of politics."

Upgrading Authoritarianism in the Arab World

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Steven Heydemann says the “after twenty years, Arab regimes have become proficient at containing and disarming democracy promotion—if not exploiting it for their own purposes.”

Pakistan: America’s Choice

Tue, 09 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel and Sandy Berger pose the following question to the Bush Administration: “Do we support democracy and the rule of law in Pakistan, or do we back up a failing military dictator?”

Mongolia Matters

Mon, 08 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Mongolia has emerged as a vibrant—though complicated—democracy which now appears worthy of international attention, investment, and support. Mongolian President N. Enkhbayar’s recent American visit calls attention to the growing closeness in US..-Mongolian relations. Mongolia’s peacekeeping support in Iraq is an important example of this improving relationship.

Opening the Door to Peace in South Asia

Mon, 08 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Stephen Cohen and Moeed Yusuf argue that the ultimate strategic balance in South Asia will likely be determined by Pakistan's relations with India, not its historically strained ties with Afghanistan.

Democratization and Reform

Thu, 20 Sep 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

September 20, 2007, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

The Crisis in the Middle East Task Force addressed the topic of “Democratization and Reform” in its third session. The discussion focused on democracy promotion in the Middle East given the obstacles to change.

How to Not Spread Democracy

Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Shibley Telhami argues that America’s effort to spread democracy in the Middle East was doomed to fail from the start, saying “the project was based on contradictions and erroneous assumptions.”

Fear and Loathing in Tehran

Sat, 01 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Article by Suzanne Maloney, The National Interest (September-October 2007)

Restore Trust in America's Leadership

Sat, 01 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Article by Ivo H. Daalder and James Lindsay, Democracy Journal (Fall 2007)

Moroccan Roulette: What Happens if You Hold an Election and Nobody Comes?

Fri, 24 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Tamara Cofman Wittes writes that elections in Morocco are the latest step in a gradual move towards reform under King Mohammed IV. She argues that offering a vote is not enough, and that "he [King Mohammed] will have to strengthen parliament and the mainstream political parties, giving them a real capacity to act on voters' concerns and reducing his own power in the process."

Pakistan, Wishing on a Star

Sat, 04 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Stephen P. Cohen and Moeed Yusuf, The Globe and Mail (8/4/07)

Pakistan: 'Economic Development' Needed To Fight Taliban

Fri, 03 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Interview with Philip H. Gordon, Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty (8/3/07)

Stability in Iraq: A War We Just Might Win

Mon, 30 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Michael E. O'Hanlon and Kenneth M. Pollack (7/30/07)

American Policy and Pakistan

Wed, 25 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Testimony by Stephen P. Cohen before the before the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations (7/25/07)

The State of Iraq: An Update

Sun, 10 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

While the American and Iraqi troops for the so-called surge are nearly all in place, it's far too early to judge the effect. Still, given America's waning patience with the war and the bad circumstances that prevailed in Iraq when the surge began, optimism is hard to come by. Our latest chart of leading indicators, based on American and Iraqi government data and news reports, doesn't brighten the picture much.

Engaging the Muslim World: A Communication Strategy to Win the War of Ideas

Wed, 11 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

A critical pillar of success in the war on terrorism is restoring the world's trust in America's word. Fortifying this pillar should be a top priority of the next President, with a special focus on relations with the Muslim world.

Elections in the Arab World: Progress or Peril?

Mon, 12 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The Saban Center for Middle East Policy's Project on Arab Democracy and Development hosted a day-long symposium on January 16, 2007 entitled "Arab Elections: Progress or Peril?" The project is headed by Tamara Cofman Wittes, a Saban Center Fellow and the Brookings Institution's leading expert on U.S. democracy promotion policy in the Middle East.

What Price Freedom? Assessing the Bush Administration's Freedom Agenda

Fri, 01 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Three years ago, in response to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the Bush Administration launched what is now known as the Freedom Agenda. In a Saban Center Analysis Paper, Tamara Cofman Wittes assesses what the Bush Administration's Freedom Agenda has accomplished in its first few years, and how well the policy shift it represents has become embedded in the institutions and operation of U.S. foreign policy.

Grand Strategy: Why America Should Promote a New Liberal Order in the Middle East

Sat, 22 Jul 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Article by Kenneth M. Pollack, Blueprint Magazine (7/22/06)

Nation Building: Not for the Fainthearted

Mon, 05 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT