Brookings: Topics - Islamic World

Afghanistan Victory Crucial for President Obama

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In an interview with IBA News, Bruce Riedel discusses President Barack Obama's policy in Afghanistan, emphasizing that victory against Al Qaeda and the Taliban is crucial not only for the stability of Afghanistan itself, but also for Pakistan and the entire Islamic world.

The U.S.-Israel Partnership: Can New Governments Overcome Old Challenges?

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 18:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 14, 2009, 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM
November 16, 2009, 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM

On November 14-16, 2009, the Saban Center for Middle East Policy at Brookings brought together top Israeli and American policymakers, journalists, and members of the public and private sectors to Jerusalem for discussions on the most critical issues in the Middle East.

Generation in Waiting : The Unfulfilled Promise of Young People in the Middle East

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Young people in the Middle East (15--29 years old) constitute about one-third of the region's population. Generation in Waiting portrays their plight, urging greater investment designed to improve the lives of this critical group.

Can Civil Society Help Bridge Divides between the United States and a Diverse Muslim World?

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hady Amr presents research on past efforts to bridge the gap between the United States and a diverse Muslim world. In a wide survey of various initiatives, many of which developed post-9/11, Amr attempts to evaluate the level of success that different programs have experienced so far. Amr then offers several recommendations on ways civil society can be the most effective in bringing people together for meaningful dialogue and progress.

Iraq's Economy Needs More Than Security

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Although violence in Iraq has decreased, Raj Desai states other transitions are needed before U.S. businesses feel comfortable about the Iraqi investment climate. In addition to security, Desai offers three sets of fundamental reforms to convince investors that Iraq is really "open for business."

Intolerance and Censorship in the Arab World

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Cynthia Schneider and Nadia Oweidat write that the Arab world is rich in literature examining all aspects of Arab life and advocating a vision of a multi-cultural society that respects human rights. Rather than manufacturing its own messages, Schneider and Oweidat believe the United States should support a return to standards of critical thinking that once characterized the Arab world.

Obama and the Nobel Peace Prize

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Barack Obama’s 2009 Nobel Peace Prize immediately triggered strong reactions worldwide. Hady Amr and Steven Barnes write that the prize presents President Obama an opportunity to build on his recent efforts to foster dialogue between America and people of all faiths around the globe.

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.

A New Way Forward: Encouraging Greater Cultural Engagement with Muslim Communities

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In a recent speech in Cairo, President Obama advocated "a new way forward," based on mutual interest and mutual respect in relationships between the United States and Muslim communities across the globe. Cynthia Schneider explains the important role arts, culture, and the media can play in building these relationships and fostering positive social change.

Which Path to Persia? : Options for a New American Strategy toward Iran

Sat, 15 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Which Path to Persia? objectively presents the most important policy options available to the United States in crafting a new strategy toward Iran.

The Jihadists Strike Back in Indonesia

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The attacks in Indonesia on July 17 remind us that vigilance must be maintained at all times against Al Qaeda’s varied affiliates and franchises, writes Saban Center Senior Fellow Bruce Riedel. Even when they appeared defeated in recent years, particularly in Indonesia or in Saudi Arabia, these groups can recover and strike again.

Crisis in Pakistan: Educate Women and Girls for Long-term Solutions

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Pakistan’s humanitarian crisis brings a sharp focus on the need for long-term socio-economic development in the Northern region. In the Conflict Resolution and Prevention Forum, Rebecca Winthrop addressed the humanitarian crisis in Pakistan and called for further innovation and investment of education for girls and women.

There are Many Ways to Exploit Al-Qaeda's Vulnerabilities

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Heading into the eighth year of the war against Al-Qaeda, the overall results are still inconclusive. Anouar Boukhars highlights reasons to be optimistic that the group will eventually disappear and he encourages the Obama administration to continue its narrative with the Muslim world in order to undercut Al-Qaeda's message and ideology.

Internal Displacement in Iraq: The Process of Working toward Durable Solutions

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

With increased levels of security in Iraq in 2008-9, displaced persons have begun to make decisions about their future: whether to return to their place of origin, locally integrate or resettle in a third location. As Jamille Bigio and Jen Scott argue, the time is ripe to assess how the government of Iraq, with the support of international and national actors, can advance the process of achieving durable solutions to displacement.

Pakistan's Displaced Girls and Women—an Opportunity for Education

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Since November 2008, the fighting between the Pakistan government and Taliban militants has displaced over two and a half million people. In the midst of this crisis, Rebecca Winthrop identifies a window of opportunity to improve the education situation of girls and women, one that will sow long-term benefits for the region’s recovery and development.

Obama's Education Promise for the Muslim World—Rhetoric or Reality?

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In his recent speech in Cairo, Egypt, President Obama signaled a new path for supporting crucial social and economic development for millions of Muslims around the world. Rebecca Winthrop recommends four elements necessary for an effective education partnership between the U.S. and the Muslim world.

Did President Obama’s Speech Help U.S.-Muslim World Relations?

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 11:08:40 GMT

President Barack Obama delivered a long-anticipated speech to the world’s 1.5 billion Muslims, touching on extremism, the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq as well as the strife between Palestinians and Israelis. Shibley Telhami says the president’s address largely achieved his objective in efforts to heal the rift in U.S.-Muslim world relations.

Middle East's Dual Challenge: Youth and the Economy

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Obama presented his much anticipated speech in Cairo at a time when the Middle East faces the dual challenge of a peaking youth population and a slumping economy. On NPR’s Marketplace, Navtej Dhillon describes how the region can address chronic youth unemployment through a larger reform agenda, including social sector investment and open dialogue between the state and its citizens.

Obama's Egypt Speech: What He Said to the Muslim World

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On June 4, President Obama delivered what was billed as a “major speech to the Muslim world” in Cairo, Egypt. As a follow up to commentary prior to the speech, the Saban Center at Brookings’s Project on U.S. Relations with the Islamic World asked leading experts and policy-makers from the United States and the Muslim world to submit their thoughts on the speech.

Inside Islam: What a Billion Muslims Really Think

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 18:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 03, 2009, 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM

On June 3, the Brookings project on U.S. Relations with the Islamic World hosted the premiere of a documentary film, Inside Islam: What a Billion Muslims Really Think, which explores the opinions of Muslims around the globe as revealed in the world’s first extensive Muslim world opinion poll conducted by Gallup.

Obama's Egypt Speech: What He Should Say to the Muslim World

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On June 4, President Obama delivered what was billed as a “major speech to the Muslim world” in Cairo, Egypt. To provide context for this event, the Saban Center at Brookings’ Project on U.S. Relations with the Islamic World asked leading experts and policy-makers from the United States and the Muslim world to submit commentary on what they hoped to hear from President Obama’s speech.

Change We Can Believe In? The Muslim World, America, and Obama's Promise

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Despite the pervasive challenges of poverty and illiteracy, the two strongest ties that bind the U.S. and the Muslim world are still military aid and oil. In the wake of President Obama's historic speech to the Muslim world from Cairo on June 4, Navtej Dhillon, Laurence Chandy and Geoffrey Gertz argue that a new foundation for engagement must include instruments such as trade, investment and human development.

Obama in Egypt and His Speech to the Muslim World

Sun, 31 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Tamara Cofman Wittes and Martin Indyk joined a group of Middle East experts, journalists and activists to discuss what should be said by President Obama during his trip to Egypt in June. Wittes argued Obama must redefine how America's role is viewed and Indyk stated that, among other things, a sincere commitment to the Israeli-Palestinian dispute is necessary.

Obama's Four Cairo Challenges

Fri, 29 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On June 4, President Obama continued his efforts to improve America’s relations with the Muslim world by delivering a highly anticipated address at Cairo University in Egypt. Stephen Grand analyzed four difficult challenges for the president in order to make this historic address to the world's approximately 1.3 billion Muslims a success.

President Obama in Egypt: Reaching Out to the Muslim World

Fri, 29 May 2009 09:22:45 GMT

President Obama travels to Cairo in June to meet with Egyptian President Mubarak and to deliver a major speech to the people of the Muslim world on June 4. Stephen Grand says that in his address, Obama will state his desire to improve the relationship between the United States and nations in the Muslim world.

Institutions, Markets and Youth in the Middle East During Global Downturn

Wed, 20 May 2009 15:03:57 GMT

Reformers in the Middle East are facing testing times, explains Navtej Dhillon, summarizing the findings of a new Middle East Youth Initiative report. Will existing challenges of youth unemployment and exclusion worsen, or will countries enact the necessary reforms to emerge stronger from the economic slowdown?

Muslim-Christian Unity

Sat, 16 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Pope Benedict's recent visit to the Middle East has accentuated the need to improve relations between Muslims and Christians at multiple levels. Saleem Ali and Hiba Zeino analyze the history of Muslim-Christian relations in the Middle East and offer suggestions for progress.

Missed by the Boom, Hurt by the Bust: Making Markets Work for Young People in the Middle East

Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A new Middle East Youth Initiative report is the first of its kind to assess the early risks faced by young people during the economic downturn, calling on policy makers to help prevent an intensified jobs crisis in the region.

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.

Educational Reform in Pakistan’s Madrassahs: Does International Assistance Have a Role?

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 21, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

On April 21, the Project on U.S. Relations with the Islamic World and the Brookings Doha Center was pleased to host a roundtable discussion with Saleem Ali on the challenges and opportunities facing the United States, the international community and Pakistan as they grapple with that country’s counter-terrorism and educational reform issues.

American Public Diplomacy after the Bush Presidency

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Cynthia Schneider examines U.S. public diplomacy by exploring the general position of the United States in the world as a whole, and then concentrating on U.S. relations specifically with the Muslim world.

To Rebuild U.S.-Muslim World Relations, Obama Is Not Enough

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Obama has demonstrated a strong personal commitment to strengthening relations between the United States and the Muslim world, in support of common security, political, economic, and social interests. Stephen Grand and Kristin Lord argue that he also needs an army, of civilians, behind him.

Pakistan’s Madrassahs and Extremism: Is there a Connection?

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 18:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

March 18, 2009, 6:00 PM to 8:00:00 PM

On March 18, 2009, the Brookings Doha Center hosted a policy discussion related to a recently-published book by the first Brookings Doha Center Visiting Fellow Saleem H. Ali entitled Islam and Education: Conflict and Conformity in Pakistan. The discussion focused on Pakistani madrassahs and what links these Islamic educational institutions may or may not have to the rise of militancy in the region.

Pakistan: Reinventing the Islamic Republic

Sat, 14 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Saleem Ali argues that each Muslim country in the world has its unique ethno-religious identity and that Pakistan needs to craft its own rather than trying to cast itself into the mold of some illusory allegiance.

"A New Way Forward" in Doha: Listen to the Artists

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

At the Arts and Culture Leaders meetings of the 2009 U.S.-Islamic World Forum, participants explored the potential for arts and media exchanges to overcome political differences as well as facilitate cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. Cynthia Schneider presents conclusions drawn from these meetings, underscoring the unique role of the arts in crafting a new way forward in the U.S.-Muslim world relationship.

Creative Expression and Its Impact on Society in the Arab World

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 10:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

March 06, 2009, 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM

On March 6, the Saban Center at Brookings’ Project on U.S. Relations with the Islamic World, in conjunction with the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, hosted a panel discussion on contemporary creative expression and its impact on Arab society, with a conversation that ranged from the role of literature, poetry and music, to the relationship between art and state sponsorship, to the differences in creative expression from Morocco to the Persian Gulf.

The Arab World's (Uneven) Progress

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Mired in conflict, afflicted by joblessness, frustrated by unresponsive and oppressive governments, and flooded with images of woe, the world's 22 Arab nations have much to lament, writes Kristin Lord. Yet these societies are also making rapid, if insufficient, progress that Lord argues will determine the future of the region.

Salafis' Social Networking in Lebanon

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Salafism has become part of Lebanon’s social makeup and is an officially recognised movement. Bilal Saab looks at how it gained popularity in the country and how Salafis have increased their influence through mainly non-violent initiatives.

Displacement, Human Development, and Security in Afghanistan

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Nearly five million refugees have returned to Afghanistan since 2002 and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) often cites Afghanistan as a positive example of refugee repatriation. In reality, however, the return of Afghan refugees may prove to be one of the most ill-conceived policies in the Islamic world in recent times.

Global Trends and Security in the Muslim World: Dilemmas for U.S. and Regional Policy

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In this U.S.-Islamic World Forum discussion paper, Stephen Grand, Tamara Wittes, Thomas Fingar and Jamal al Suwaidi investigate new and non-traditional security challenges and how they are likely to affect U.S.-Muslim world relations.

Displacement in the Muslim World: A Focus on Afghanistan and Iraq

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Iraq and Afghanistan face displacement crises of massive proportions. According to best estimates, the number approaches two million refugees and 2.8 million IDPs. Although the pace of displacement has slowed since mid-2007, few IDPs and refugees have been able to return, their resources are running out, and international assistance has been inadequate. The longer displacement lasts, the more complicated it will be to resolve.

Brookings Doha Center Celebrates One–Year Anniversary

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 18:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

February 16, 2009, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

To mark its one-year anniversary in Qatar, the Brookings Doha Center hosted a reception for friends and colleagues who had supported the center’s mission throughout its first year of operation. Guests of honor included, on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Mutib Al-Rumaihi, Assistant Foreign Minister for Follow Up Affairs, and on behalf of the Brookings Institution, Carlos Pascual and Martin Indyk.

Displacement in the Muslim World

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Throughout the Muslim world, millions of people have been forced to flee their homes and communities for many reasons, including both conflicts and natural disasters. This massive displacement of people affects both national development plans and individual human development, affecting relationships between countries, UN Security Council discussions, and peace processes. In short, as Hady Amr and Elizabeth Ferris argue, understanding—and resolving—displacement is central to development, peace, and security.

Brookings Doha Center International Advisory Council Inaugural Meeting

Sun, 15 Feb 2009 18:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

February 15, 2009, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

On February 15, 2009, His Excellency Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jabr Al-Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar, convened the inaugural Brookings Doha Center International Advisory Council meeting in Doha, Qatar.

2009 U.S.-Islamic World Forum: Common Challenges

Sat, 14 Feb 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

February 14, 2009, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
February 16, 2009, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

On February 14-16, the Brookings Project on U.S. Relations with the Islamic World held the 6th annual U.S.-Islamic World Forum in Doha, Qatar. Now in its sixth year, the U.S.-Islamic World Forum has become the foremost meeting for positive cross-cultural engagement among leaders from the United States and the Muslim world.

President Obama in the Middle East

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

February 02, 2009, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

On February 2, 2009, The Brookings Doha Center (BDC), a Project of the Saban Center for Middle East Policy, hosted its second videoconference, bringing together Ambassador Martin Indyk, Director of the Saban Center, via live feed from Washington and Hady Amr, Director of the Brookings Doha Center in Qatar. The discussion focused on the key players and policies of the new Obama administration and what changes this would likely mean for the relationship between the United States and the Middle East. Both speakers offered their thoughts before taking questions from audience members.

The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: Beyond Gaza

Sun, 01 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bilal Saab writes that Israeli and Palestinian leaders are either incapable or unwilling to think strategically about ways they can resolve, or at least effectively manage, the many issues that have divided their people for more than sixty years.

Hamas at the Crossroads

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following a three-week war with Israel, Hamas officials have recently emerged from weeks in hiding for a "victory celebration." Bilal Saab argues that while support for Hamas remains strong, anger and fears have been on the rise among Palestinians. Saab examines the war in Gaza and where Hamas can go from here.

Brookings – Politico Live Web Chat: The Gaza Strip

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

January 28, 2009, 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM

With a fragile cease-fire in place in the Gaza Strip, President Obama is sending very different signals to the Middle East and the larger Arab world than his predecessor. In a web chat moderated by Politco’s Fred Barbash, Brookings expert Tamara Cofman Wittes answered questions on how these new messages are being received and the challenges that await the new president in the region.

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.

President Obama's Speech: An Appraisal from the Middle East

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Expectations for the Obama administration in the Middle East and Muslim world are characterized by a realistic optimism, says Tarik Yousef, speaking on a BBC Arabic radio broadcast. Yousef highlights the importance of the new President’s symbolic changes in rhetoric and discusses the tests that the new administration will face in the region, from the stalled Arab-Israeli peace process to the relationship with Iran. What will beckon the administration first, however, are a pressing set of domestic policy challenges.

What Should President Obama Say to the Middle East?

Mon, 19 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Prior to the Inauguration, U.S. Relations with the Islamic World director Stephen Grand partook in a Project on Middle East Democracy excercise involving twelve respected foreign policy voices in America. Grand, and others, answered "What would you advise President Obama to say to the people of the Middle East?".

Toolbox: The Refugee Imperative in Iraq

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The recent news from Iraq has been mostly good. Violence is down significantly, sectarian militias are giving ground to Iraqi security forces, and we see signs of a political process that could foster reconciliation, deliver basic services and pave the way for an orderly U.S. withdrawla. However, one major threat to Iraq's hard-won stability has yet to be fully acknowledged, let alone addressed: the problem of displacement.

The State of Iraq: An Update

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon and Jason Campbell write that Iraq has settled into a kind of violent semi-peace but, for all the progress in Iraqi politics—including approving the status of forces agreement with the United States that takes effect on Jan. 1—there are still big challenges: agreements on oil sharing among all sectarian groups and provinces; determining Kirkuk's future status and other places contested by Kurds and Arabs; and the resettlement of four million people.

How to Win Islam Over

Sun, 21 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Justin Vaisse and Olivier Roy assess Barack Obama's promise to convene a conference of Muslim leaders to make clear the U.S. is not at war with Islam. Vaisse and Roy argue that Obama would be better served by simply following through on the promises of closing Guantánamo Bay, withdrawing from Iraq, banning torture, and pushing for peace in the Middle East.

Expand the Agenda in Pakistan and Afghanistan

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

December 18, 2008, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

Seven years after the 9/11 attacks, the border region between Pakistan and Afghanistan remains the front line in the war on terror. On December 18, Brookings Fellow Vanda Felbab-Brown offered a public memo to President-elect Obama with recommendations to expand an agenda of peace and stability to Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Middle East Needs Obama's Touch

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

President Barack Obama will face a series of challenges in the Middle East demanding urgent attention: an Iraq that could still unravel, an Iran approaching the nuclear threshold, a faltering Israeli-Palestinian peace process, and weak governments in Lebanon and the Palestinian territories. Martin Indyk and Richard Haass outline what the initial goals of the Obama administration should be in the region.

The Evolution of Iraq Strategy

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Stephen Biddle, Michael O'Hanlon and Kenneth Pollack analyze the current situation in Iraq and the evolving Iraq strategy. They lay out a "conditions based" approach to reduce American forces in Iraq and argue that most combat forces can leave by 2011.

Managing Nuclear Proliferation in the Middle East

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel and Gary Samore write that attempts to stop Iran's nuclear program have failed. They offer suggestions to the incoming Obama administration on how to move forward with a new approach to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapons capability.

Sanctioning Iran: Current Impact, Future Prospects

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

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

The sixth session of the Iran Working Group was held on December 16, 2008, at Brookings. Several analysts shared their expertise on the current state of sanctions against Iran – in particular, on the current measures targeting certain Iranian banks – and on the prospects for the incoming U.S. administration to achieve multilateral consensus on a diplomatic strategy toward Tehran, particularly from key actors such as Russia and China.

Obama's First Trip as President

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

During the presidential campaign, Barack Obama promised that in the first 100 days of his administration he would "travel to a major Islamic forum and deliver an address to redefine our struggle." Michael Fullilove suggests there is no better place than Indonesia.

The Doha Compact: New Directions for the United States and Muslim World

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

December 12, 2008, 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM

For the last five years, Brookings’s Saban Center for Middle East Policy has hosted an annual U.S.-Islamic World Forum designed to build bridges of understanding. On December 12, the Center’s Project on U.S. Relations with the Islamic World hosted a discussion of The Doha Compact – New Directions: America and the Muslim World, a new report that encapsulates the ideas developed at the forum.

Beyond Iraq: A New U.S. Strategy for the Middle East

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Martin Indyk and Richard Haass argue to be successful in the Middle East, the Obama administration will need to move beyond Iraq, find ways to deal constructively with Iran, and forge a final-status Israeli-Palestinian agreement.

Saban Forum 2008

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 17:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

December 05, 2008, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
December 06, 2008, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
December 07, 2008, 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM

On December 5-7, in the month before the new U.S. administration enters office, the Saban Center for Middle East Policy at Brookings brought together top Israeli and American policymakers, journalists, and members of the public and private sectors, as well as leaders from Britain and Turkey to discuss the most critical issues in the Middle East.

A Time for Diplomatic Renewal: Toward a New U.S. Strategy in the Middle East

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Martin Indyk and Richard Haass note that President-elect Obama will face a series of critical, complex, and interrelated challenges in the Middle East that will demand his immediate attention: an Iran apparently intent on approaching or crossing the nuclear threshold as quickly as possible; a fragile situation in Iraq that is straining the U.S. military; weak governments in Lebanon and Palestine under challenge from stronger Hezbollah and Hamas militant organizations; a faltering Israeli-Palestinian peace process; and American influence diluted by a severely damaged reputation.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps: Military and Political Influence in Today's Iran

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 18, 2008, 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

The fifth session of the Iran Working Group, jointly organized by the Saban Center for Middle East Policy and the United States Institute of Peace, was held on November 13, 2008, at the Brookings Institution. The featured speakers were Dr. Michael Connell, director of Project Iran at the Center for Naval Analyses, and Dr. Kenneth Katzman, specialist in Middle East Affairs at the Congressional Research Service and author of The Warriors of Islam: Iran’s Revolutionary Guard.

Arab Youth Between Hope and Disillusionment: Toward a New U.S. Strategy in the Middle East

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 10, 2008, 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM

On November 10, the Wolfensohn Center for Development and the Saban Center for Middle East Policy at Brookings will host a discussion on emerging trends in youth attitudes toward future economic prospects in the Middle East and North Africa. Policy-makers, development experts and business leaders are acknowledging the importance of achieving a better understanding of the needs and aspirations of the Middle East’s youth demographic.

Pakistan: The Critical Battlefield

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In the global struggle against terrorism, Pakistan poses paradoxes and enigmas. Bruce Riedel believes understanding these issues—and developing a strategy to deal with them—may constitute the single most important foreign policy challenge facing the United States.

Lessons Of The Troop Surge in Iraq

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon argues the success of the surge in Iraq depends on our ability to maintain the gains made thus far. However, the unwillingness of Iraqi leaders to accept a new Status of Forces Agreement jeopardizes hard-fought security improvements and endangers prospects of political reconciliation.

Prospects of Youth Radicalization in Pakistan

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Moeed Yusuf analyzes Pakistan's high potential for youth radicalization. He writes that the situation is marked by a poor education system stratified along socio-economic lines and disparate economic opportunities across segments of society, and he offers several policy suggestions for addressing the problem.

The Doha Compact – New Directions: America and the Muslim World

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Relations between the United States and the Muslim world have deteriorated markedly in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks. The 2008 Doha Compact, signed by 46 leaders from the U.S. and the Muslim World, seeks to encapsulate the ideas that have been developed at the annual U.S.-Islamic World Forum and make recommendations for the next U.S. Administration.

The Pentagon and Public Diplomacy

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Kristin Lord says the next administration must change the face of U.S. public diplomacy. Lord argues that putting the military, not civilians, at the forefront of U.S. global communications undercuts the likelihood of success, distorts priorities, and undermines the effectiveness of U.S. civilian agencies.

The U.S. Elections: How Americans Will Vote

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 18:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 29, 2008, 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM

On October 29, the Brookings Doha Center hosted its first videoconference policy discussion, bringing together Dr. Thomas Mann and Dr. Jerry Leach. The discussion included details about what made this election unique, some of the key differences between the candidates, and what the proposed policies could mean for the future of the Middle East. Hady Amr moderated the discussion.

How to Fight Al Qaeda Now

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel joined Newsweek to discuss the continuing threat from Al Qaeda, their successes and failures, and options for fighting the organization now and in the future.

Strategic Counterterrorism

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Terrorism is a real and urgent threat to the U.S. and its interests; a threat that could become far more dangerous if terrorists acquire nuclear or biological weapons. Daniel Benjamin explores the drawbacks of using military force in combating terrorism and elaborates on the need for a positive agenda for the Muslim world -- one that deepens U.S. engagement in Muslim nations as they seek to modernize.

The Role of Arts and Culture in the U.S.-Muslim World Relationship

Sun, 19 Oct 2008 18:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 19, 2008, 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM

On October 19, 2008, the Brookings Doha Center, a Project of the Saban Center for Middle East Policy at the Brookings Institution, hosted an event. Panelists included Stephen Grand, Ambassador Cynthia Schneider, and Pelin Turgut. The talk focused on the role of arts and culture in bridging the post 9/11 divide between the U.S. and Muslim World.

The Next U.S. President and the Middle East?

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 18:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 15, 2008, 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM

On October 15, 2008, the Brookings Doha Center, a Project of the Saban Center for Middle East Policy at the Brookings Institution, hosted Ambassador Martin Indyk, Director of the Saban Center, for its first policy discussion of the post-Ramadan season. The policy discussion entitled covered some of the most important challenges and responsibilities facing the next administration with regard to U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.

Iraq's Missing Generation

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The future of Iraq hinges on its young, but far too many of them have been driven into exile.

Stalled Youth Transitions in the Middle East

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The confluence of economic growth in the Middle East and millions of youth ready to hit the job market could be a recipe for prosperity. However, young people are encountering numerous obstacles. Navtej Dhillon, Director of the Middle East Youth Initiative, and Djavad Salehi-Isfahani, Visiting Fellow at the Wolfensohn Center for Development, argue that the root cause of youth exclusion lies in the institutions that mediate transitions from school to work and family formation.

2008 U.S.-Islamic World Regional Forum in Kuala Lumpur

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 09:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 13, 2008, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
October 14, 2008, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

On October 13-14, The Brookings Institution in partnership with The Asia Foundation and the Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS) Malaysia, brought together 50 key leaders from Southeast Asia, the broader Muslim world, and the United States for open and frank dialogue directed at developing actionable programs for government, civil society, and the private sector.

Mightier Than the Sword: Arts and Culture in the U.S.-Muslim World Relationship

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 18:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 06, 2008, 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM

On October 6, the Saban Center for Middle East Policy’s Project on U.S. Relations with the Islamic World will host a discussion of a new report, Mightier than the Sword: Arts and Culture in the U.S.-Muslim World Relationship, which examines the nature and scope of arts and cultural interactions between the United States and the Muslim world today.

The Interplay Between U.S. Foreign Policy and Political Islam in Post-Soeharto Indonesia

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

To understand how U.S. policy plays into the politics of Islam in Indonesia, Mohammad Syafi’i Anwar argues it should be analyzed within a global context. Anwar believes that the U.S. should continue to support progressive-liberal Islam and embrace moderate Muslim, as well as improve public diplomacy in the Muslim World and address the ideologies that underlie terrorism.

Rethinking Hezbollah’s Disarmament

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bilal Saab provides an examination of the true nature of Hezbollah, which he argues is an essential pre-requisite for sound policy making toward the organization. He recommends a rethinking of the issue of Hezbollah’s disarmament through a proper assessment of the challenge it poses and a thorough understanding of its organic connection with Iran.

Diplomatic Strategies for Dealing with Iran

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Suzanne Maloney writes about diplomatic options for the next administration in dealing with Iran. Maloney offers ideas on how Iran may respond to new U.S. initiatives by exploring previous cases of dialogue, and she concludes by presenting a sense of how Tehran views talking with Washington.

U.S.-Turkish Relationship: What's Wrong with This Picture?

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Mark Parris spoke before the Rochester Committee on Foreign Relations to discuss why Turkey is important to the U.S., how relations between the U.S. and Turkey have gone so wrong in recent years, and what can be done about it.

Terrorist Safe Havens in Pakistan

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel joined the Philadephia Inquirer's Trudy Rubin to discuss terrorism related to Pakistan and what the United States should do in the region.

Impact of Iraq War on Jihadist Terrorism

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Kenneth Pollack joined the Philadephia Inquirer's Trudy Rubin to discuss the long-term impact of the Iraq war on al Qaeda and what the future involvement of the United States should be in the region.

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

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

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 Challenges of Hollywood and the Muslim World

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Cynthia Schneider discusses the reach of American popular culture, are possible ways to harness its power to reflect more accurately the diversity of people and perspectives that characterize the U.S.

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.

Understanding the Role of Islam in Counterterrorism Policy

Sun, 31 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As the National Commission on the September 11, 2001 Terrorist Attacks emphasized, significant progress against terrorism cannot be achieved exclusively through the use of military force. Rashad Hussain and Al-Husein N. Madhany argue that in order to win the "battle of ideas," the United States government must carefully reformulate its strategy and work with the Muslim world to promote mainstream Islam over terrorist ideology.

The Muslim Olympics?

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Hady Amr reflects on the Beijing Olympics and the lack of major success in these games by athletes living in the Muslim world. He argues that there should be a concerted effort to encourage youth to strive for greatness and inspire others to compete in the Olympiads of the future.

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.

Terrorism: Rogue Operators

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Think that state sponsors of terror are pulling all the strings? Think again. Daniel Byman details how countries like Iran and Syria may play a big role in the terrorism underworld, but they’re quickly losing control over rogues that bite the hands that once fed them.

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.

Turkey’s Constitutional Court Decision on the Justice and Development Party (AKP)

Wed, 06 Aug 2008 15:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

August 06, 2008, 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM

Turkey’s Constitutional Court recently struck down an attempt to outlaw the Justice and Development Party (AKP). This court case had been described by international media as a battle between the secular and devout sides of Turkey’s national “soul.”The Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings hosted three of Turkey’s most astute political observers for a discussion of the court ruling and its implications.

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.

Middle East: A Path Out of the Desert

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Kenneth Pollack joined washingtonpost.com readers to discuss his new book A Path Out of the Desert: A Grand Strategy for America in the Middle East.