Brookings: Topics - Middle East

Corruption Index Today, Election Tomorrow, Aid Revamp the Day After?

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In reaction to news of brazen corruption in Afghanistan and the release of the new Corruption Perceptions Index, Daniel Kaufmann asks tough questions about the relationship between aid and corruption and suggests improvements in how development aid effectiveness is reviewed.

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.

The Middle East and the New Global Economy: Economic Recovery and a New Government in Lebanon

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Tarik Yousef and the Middle East Youth Initiative speak with Jad Chaaban about recent economic and political developments in Lebanon, where Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri ended months of negotiations by announcing a new unity cabinet earlier this week. With impressive overall growth projected for 2009, Lebanon’s economy may emerge stronger from the global crisis if the new government can agree on needed reforms.

National Dialogue and State-Building in the Middle East

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 09, 2009, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

On November 9, the Brookings Doha Center hosted a policy discussion with H.E. Mohamad Chatah, the Lebanese minister of finance, H.E. Ghassan Khatib, director of the Palestinian Government Media Center, and H.E. Ayad Al Samarrai, speaker of the Iraqi Parliament on the project of inclusive national dialogue and state-building in Lebanon, the Palestinian territories, and Iraq. The speakers examined past and current nationally-driven conflict resolution efforts.

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.

A Revolution Once More: Unmanned Systems and the Middle East

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Amidst growing use of robotics in warfare, Peter Singer explores the future of unmanned systems in the Middle East and South Asia. Singer concludes that while the United States remains -- and likely will remain -- the top developer of such technology, it is only a matter of time before other nations begin deploying robotics in large numbers.

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.

Arab Citizens of Israel: What Do They Think?

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 01, 2009, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

On October 1, Shibley Telhami, Saban Center nonresident senior fellow and Anwar Sadat professor for peace and development at the University of Maryland, presented results of the 2009 University of Maryland/Zogby International opinion poll, conducted in August 2009, that surveyed Israeli Arabs and Palestinian public opinion.

Iran Sanctions: Who Really Wins?

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Iranian officials agreed in principle with the United States and five other international powers in Geneva to export their uranium enrichment program in exchange for a halt in UN sanctions action. Djavad Salehi-Isfahani argues that sanctions would be the wrong choice anyway. Existing sanctions have had no discernible effect on Iran's nuclear policy, and harsher sanctions may actually strengthen President Ahmadinejad's populist control of the economy.

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.

The Middle East and the New Global Economy: Development and Diversification in Saudi Arabia

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Saudi Arabia will join other Group of Twenty (G-20) nations this week to address the global economic recovery. In a discussion with the Middle East Youth Initiative, expert economist Hassan Hakimian explains that the government’s stimulus budget has helped to cushion the country from the worst effects of the recession. Yet, the long-term challenges of developing the non-oil, private sector and harnessing human capital remain.

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 Middle East and the New Global Economy: Revisiting Egypt in the Wake of the Downturn

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As leaders from the Group of Twenty (G-20) nations prepare to meet to take stock of the world's economy, the Middle East finds itself increasingly influenced by global trends and policies. Brookings expert Tarik Yousef and professor Ragui Assaad discuss Egypt's responses to the downturn and its future role in the global economy.

Previewing the United Nations General Assembly: A Discussion with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 10:30:50 GMT

Event Information:

September 18, 2009, 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM

World leaders are now in New York as the United Nations General Assembly opens its 64th session. Last week, Brookings hosted Secretary of State Hillary Clinton for a speech previewing the U.S. agenda for the assembly, including addressing Iran, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, climate change, and the Middle East peace process.

The Democratization Process in Morocco

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

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.

The Future of Middle East Peace: Israel's Options and Opportunities

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 09:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

September 09, 2009, 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM

On September 9, the Saban Center at Brookings hosted a policy discussion with Alon Pinkas, former Consul General of Israel in New York and current President of the U.S.-Israel Institute at the Rabin Center in Tel Aviv. The discussion came in advance of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s trip to New York to attend the UN General assembly and amid debate over the health of the United States-Israel relationship.

Politique étrangère d'Obama: les nuages noirs de l'automne

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Justin Vaïsse lays out the delicate international issues that await President Obama in the fall. He concludes none of them holds any promise of easy resolution, and the principles on which Obama founded his foreign policy will be severly tested. (French)

Al-Qaeda's Plot to Murder Saudi Prince Muhammad Bin Nayif

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel says the attempted assassination of Saudi Arabia's counterterrorism chief raises questions about whether al-Qaeda's Saudi branch has recovered from recent crackdowns against the group. Riedel examines al-Qaeda's regrouping in next-door Yemen and analyzes what this first major terror opreation in the country since 2006 means.

The Battle for Baghdad

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

With renewed violence striking Iraq, Ken Pollack writes that the United States is still all that stands between the war-torn country and anarchy. Pollack argues that the United States should use its power and influence within Iraq to ensure that the country does not slide back into civil war.

U.S.-Egypt Relations and Hosni Mubarak's Washington Visit

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak visited the White House for the first time in five years this week. His message was that Arab nations want peace but Israel must make concessions first. Martin Indyk joined Diane Rehm to discuss the future of U.S.-Egypt relations and the Middle East peace process.

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.

Morocco’s King Mohammed VI: 10 Years and Counting

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On July 30, notables from all corners of Morocco gathered at the Royal Palace in Tangier to celebrate the tenth anniversary of King Mohammed VI’s ascendance to the throne. Maati Monjib and James Liddell investigate what has changed in the country since King Mohammed first took power with a commitment to an open and democratically ruled society.

Report of the Representative of the Secretary-General on the Human Rights of Internally Displaced Persons

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Internal displacement continues to be one of the world's major humanitarian and human rights challenges and many internally displaced persons (IDPs) experience serious violations of their human rights. In his annual report to the UN General Assembly, Walter Kälin argues that it is important to translate the increasing recognition of the human rights dimension of internal displacement at the international and regional levels into effective action at the national and local levels of government.

Iran and Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's Second Term

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Two months after a landslide election that was widely viewed as fraudulent, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, will be inaugurated this week for a second term as president of Iran. Suzanne Maloney examines both what has happened in Iran since the election and new questions regarding the stability of the regime moving forward.

Minimizing Potential Threats from Iran: Assessing Sanctions and Other U.S. Policy Options

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Suzanne Maloney testified before the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs on recent developments in Iran and the possibility of new sanctions. Maloney noted that while sanctions may be the only effective means of persuading Iran to cooperate, the willingness of the international community is limited and Iran is somewhat insulated because of its already poor economy and extensive petroleum exports.

Political and Economic Woes Thwart Return to Normalcy in Iran

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following his return from Tehran, Djavad Salehi-Isfahani speaks to NPR’s Marketplace about festering political and economic discontent in Iran following the June elections. Bringing the country’s economy in for a soft landing will pose a significant challenge to the government, he notes, as Iranian citizens struggle to get back to their daily lives.

How Egypt’s Changing Media Landscape is Influencing Domestic Politics

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

July 28, 2009, 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM

On July 28, the Project on U.S. Relations with the Islamic World was pleased to host Ford Foundation Visiting Fellow Mirette Mabrouk in a discussion about the changing landscape of Arab media and its effect on Egypt’s domestic politics.

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

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 18:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

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.

Arab-Israeli Conflict: Let the Diplomatic Games Begin

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Anouar Boukhars, visiting fellow at Brookings Doha Center, says the world has watched the rearrangement of practices and strategies of American foreign policy under the Obama administration with interest and fascination. By making Arab-Israeli relations a top priority, Boukhars believes Obama is determined to address the tough unanswered challenges of the past.

Iran: Recent Developments and Implications for U.S. Policy

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Suzanne Maloney testified before the House Committee on Foreign Affairs on recent developments in Iran after the June 12 election and resulting protests across the country. Maloney addressed the current internal political crisis, the efficiency of additional international sanctions against Iran and offered suggestions for U.S. policy going forward.

Iraq's Northern Problem

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon says that Iraq is going well on the whole, but there could be trouble brewing between the Iraqi army and Kurdish peshmerga over land interests. To address the situation, O'Hanlon recommends a U.S. envoy to Iraq be named, Kirkuk to be supervised internationally and negotiations of new "green lines" for the Kurdistan border.

Geithner and the New Middle East Economic Agenda

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As U.S. Secretary Treasury Geithner concludes his first visit to the Middle East, Navtej Dhillon argues for a new agenda which links U.S. efforts to reduce its dependency on foreign oil to the Middle East’s challenge of building diversified economies which provide a better future for the region’s citizens.

Iran’s Quest for Regional Preeminence: Implications for Middle East Security

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 08:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

July 14, 2009, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
July 15, 2009, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

On July 14-15, the Saban Center at Brookings and the United States Central Command partnered for the first time to convene a joint conference. Over one-hundred-and-fifty participants came together to analyze developments in Iran, including Iran’s support of terrorist groups, Iran’s foreign policy, and the Iranian nuclear program.

The Beginning of the End in Iraq

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The withdrawal of U.S. combat troops from Iraq's cities is the beginning of the end of the American part of the war, writes Bruce Riedel. He outlines both the enormous costs already paid by going to war and explains how al-Qaeda and Iran benefited from years of U.S. foreign policy focusing almost entirely on Iraq.

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.

Going Home? Prospects and Pitfalls for Large-Scale Return of Iraqis

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Recently discussion has turned to the prospects for the large-scale return of refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) to Iraq. More than 4 million Iraqis have been displaced, either internally or externally. And while the Iraqi and US governments, policymakers in the region, and humanitarian actors assume that most will return to Iraq in the near future, Elizabeth Ferris points out that experience with other displacement crises indicates that return will be neither automatic nor straightforward.

U.S. Troops Withdraw From Iraq's Cities

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon evaluates the situation on the ground in Iraq as troops fully withdraw from cities and urban centers. He concludes that through violence may continue to spike in the short-term, it is unlikely to return to pre-surge levels and he also notes U.S. troops will still be available to play security roles when called upon.

Options for a New American Strategy Toward Iran

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In a new Saban Analysis Paper, six Brookings experts analyze the main policy approaches toward Iran. In examining the benefits and drawbacks of the nine options—including engagement, persuasion, airstrikes, and containment—the authors refrain from recommending one policy over the other. Rather, they present the details of the policies in a manner that allows readers to understand the complexity of the challenge that is Iran and decide for themselves which group of policies is best.

After the Iranian Uprising

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Looking past Iran’s recent election crisis, growing trade and budget deficits will hamper Ahmadinejad’s second term and his penchant for redistributionist policies, Djavad Salehi-Isfahani warns. While the administration will face pressure to continue expansionist policies, Salehi-Isfahani predicts that Iranians will pay the price through high inflation and low growth.

U.S. Troops Withdraw from Iraq

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:58:29 GMT

As U.S. troops withdraw back to their bases in Iraq, questions remain about Iraq’s ability to maintain security and stability in the country. Iraq’s leadership, military, and police force face a number of challenges ahead as they assume control, but as Kenneth Pollack explains, Iraqis are eager to end the so-called U.S. occupation and establish their sovereignty.

Misreading Tehran

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the wake of post-election unrest in Iran, Suzanne Maloney writes that many of America’s Iran watchers failed in their assessments. She says to make sure we aren’t caught by surprise with Tehran’s politics again we need to understand the deep republican streak of the Iranian people—and the lengths to which their leaders will go to stifle it.

The Many Crises of Iranian Youth

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

With Iran at a political impasse, Navtej Dhillon and Daniel Egel write that the youth of Iran, who account for nearly 40 percent of the voting age population, have been profoundly disappointed by the promises of the Islamic Republic and are yearning for opportunities for economic advancement.

How the Economy Plays into Iran's Turmoil

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In an interview on NPR’s Marketplace, Djavad Salehi-Isfahani reports from Iran that the post-election political stalemate has put a halt to much economic and social activity in Tehran. Winning back the full participation and confidence of Iran’s “technical elite”—its doctors, engineers, and lawyers—will be a grave challenge for the new government.

Iran's Election: Economic Fears and Discontents

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Djavad Salehi-Isfahani continues to monitor post-election unrest from Tehran. He writes that deep social and economic divisions will continue to weaken the fabric of Iranian society, and will present a challenge for the next government as it attempts to reverse growing inequality in the country.

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

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 23, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

With Iran in the grip of post-election uncertainty, the question of how to approach America’s most vexing Middle East policy challenge has become acute. On June 23, the Saban Center for Middle East Policy at Brookings hosted a discussion with the authors of a new monograph titled "Which Path to Persia? Options for a New American Strategy toward Iran," which outlines nine policy options for the United States in its approach to Iran during this pivotal time.

The Lebanese Elections and the Middle East: An Opportunity for Change?

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 18:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 23, 2009, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

On June 23, the Brookings Doha Center hosted a policy discussion to examine the elections in Lebanon, to shed some light on the technical aspects of the elections and the monitoring process, and to explore potential reforms to the Lebanese electoral law and its underlying sectarian political system.

Iran's Economy: Trouble in Tehran

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Djavad Salehi-Isfahani assesses Iran's recent economic performance in Foreign Policy magazine, arguing that the country’s policymakers have amassed a mixed record. While government spending in the past year was based on safe estimates of oil prices, high levels of social spending will be hard to maintain and the private sector will struggle to revive the Iranian economy in 2009.

Morocco: Local Elections Bring Victory to Vote-Buyers and a Royal Friend

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Moroccans voted in local elections on June 12 and the leading newspaper Almassae characterized it as a "sweeping electoral tsunami" for the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM), founded only a few months ago. Patkin visiting fellow Maati Monjib says that while on the surface the elections were a successful exercise in procedural democracy, a deeper look reveals troubling trends for Morocco’s political liberalization.

Can Iran’s Reformers Exploit Fissures in the Regime?

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Suzanne Maloney writes that no matter who emerges victorious in Iran's current struggle for political power, the future of the Islamic Republic will look nothing like the country the world has known for the last 30 years.

Is Iran Ripe for Revolution?

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Byman explores the massive demonstrations that have swept parts of Iran since the election on June 12 and what they might mean for the clerical regime. He argues that while there is reason to believe there is growing interest in reform in the country, this period of unrest is fairly unlikely to bring it.

What if Ahmadinejad Really Won?

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As demonstrations continue in the wake of the Iranian election, Djavad Salehi-Isfahani writes from Tehran that the concentration of protests in Iran's large urban areas is not a coincidence: rural and small town voters may prioritize different social and political issues than their young, urban counterparts.

Reacting to Iran's Disputed Presidential Election Outcome

Sun, 14 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was proclaimed the landslide winner in Iran's presidential contest amid accusations of widespread election fraud. Suzanne Maloney argues that although the election has poisoned the atmosphere for diplomacy, it has not changed the fact that negotiations represent the best of a range of unappealing options available to Washington.

An Absurd Outcome to Iran's Presidential Election

Sat, 13 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Suzanne Maloney explores the main questions left after Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s win in Iran. Among these questions, Maloney addresses how much the vote was manipulated and whether Obama can still pursue diplomacy as an option with a fractured Iran.

Lebanon: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Sat, 13 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Lebanon’s electoral system, like Iran’s, should be confined to the dustbin of history, says Hady Amr. It’s disturbing. And worse, it actively reinforces the divisions which spark civil and sectarian strife. A new system can emerge if Lebanese civil society calls for it, and the international community supports these calls. The outcome would ultimately be a truly democratic Lebanon with less sectarianism, less violence, and more unity.

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly in Lebanon's Elections

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hady Amr discusses the good and bad news related to Lebanon's recent elections in which a pro-American coalition won. Amr notes that while there are many positives, the electoral system, in which parliament is seated on sectarian lines needs to go.

What to Read on Iranian Politics

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Suzanne Maloney examines Iran’s internal and international relations by offering an annotated syllabus on Iranian politics. Focusing on serious analysis, Maloney offers suggestions ranging from the formation of the Islamic Republic to the presidency of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.

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.

President Obama’s Cairo Speech: Healing the Wounds?

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hady Amr explores President Barack Obama's June 4 Cairo speech as seen through the eyes of an Arab-American who has focused a career on tying to explain the relationship between America and the Middle East. Arm writes that Obama evoked social truths and the word of God to speak to the Muslim world in a way he has never witnessed from a U.S. president.

After the Elections: U.S. Policy and Political Stability in Lebanon

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 11, 2009, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

On June 10, Tamara Wittes, senior fellow and director of the Middle East Democracy and Development Project at the Saban Center at Brookings, and Daniel Brumberg, acting director of the Muslim World Initiative at USIP and director of Democracy and Governance Studies at Georgetown University analyzed the significance of the June 7, 2009 parliamentary elections in Lebanon and their impact on U.S. policy in that country and the region.

Iran's Presidential Elections: A Surge of Reformists in Politics

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The highly anticipated Iranian presidential election marks a major turning point in Iranian politics. With over 30 million expected voters, Djavad Salehi-Isfanani analyzes the campaign, what’s at stake and states that this election demonstrates Iranian political progress.

Iran's Presidential Election: What to Watch For

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As Iranians go to the polls in their hotly contested presidential election, Suzanne Maloney analyzes the vote as being both a referendum on the polarizing first term of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and an opportunity for the reformist movement to revive itself after crushing defeats in recent years. She also cautions the Obama administration against making public statements in favor of any outcome, for fear of stoking a hardliner backlash.

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.

Obama's Cairo Speech Could Make the World a Safer Place

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Obama’s speech in Cairo has been heralded as a historic moment in redefining and reorienting the U.S. approach to the Muslim world. Michael Fullilove examines the issues, themes and tone of Obama’s speech while exploring the implications of the speech for U.S.-Muslim relations, particularly in reference to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Obama's Call for Educating Women

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Obama's words in his historic Cairo address have raised the hopes of millions of girls around the world. David Gartner discusses how the president's call for educating women is a commitment that can be fulfilled through the creation of a Global Fund for Education.

Obama’s Cairo Speech: A New Foreign Policy Agenda

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 12:18:52 GMT

President Obama’s address to the Muslim world was largely well received by the Islamic community, the public and world leaders. William Galston says the speech covered many issues but hard work must follow the president’s eloquent words.

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.

Thoughts on President Obama's Cairo Speech

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In broadly and directly addressing the Muslim World, President Obama undertook a complex task. Mirette Mabrouk points to Obama’s discussion of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and his promises of U.S. economic aid to the Middle East as particularly dynamic areas of the speech.

Reflections on President Obama's Egypt Speech

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Stephen Grand assesses President Barack Obama's June 4 address from Egypt. Noting that while one speech cannot eliminate years of mutual anger and feelings of disrespect, Grand believes Obama has created the real possibility for what is described as "a new beginning" with the "Muslim world."

A New Beginning: President Obama’s Cairo Speech

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The explicit theme of President Obama’s speech in Cairo, was "A New Beginning," writes William Galston. President Obama has wagered his presidency on the premise that the U.S. have entered new chapter. If he is right, he will be a transformative president of historic stature.

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.

President Obama’s Address to the Muslim World

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 18:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 04, 2009, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

On June 4th, the Brookings Doha Center hosted its largest event to date on President Barack Obama’s address to the Muslim world given from Cairo earlier in the afternoon. Joseph LeBaron, U.S. Ambassador to the State of Qatar, provided remarks on the speech and took questions and comments from audience members. The session was moderated by Hady Amr, Director of the Brookings Doha Center.

Reactions to President Obama's Speech to the Muslim World

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Barack Obama delivered a highly anticipated address in Cairo, Egypt on June 4 in an attempt to improve U.S. relations with the Muslim world. Brookings experts offered comments on the President’s speech.

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.

Stability in Iraqi Kurdistan: Reality or Mirage?

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In this Saban Center working paper, Lydia Khalil examines the unresolved challenges relating to Kurdistan, particularly the status of Kirkuk, oil claims and internal governance, to determine the prospects for long-term Iraqi unity and stability. In presenting this analysis, Khalil offers a series of recommendations for the Obama Administration, placing a priority on strengthened diplomacy and support of mediation efforts that strike a balance between resolving the issues and not alienating the parties.

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.

What Role for International Law in the Arab World?

Sun, 31 May 2009 18:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 31, 2009, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

The Brookings Doha Center hosted a discussion on the role of international law in the Arab world. Panelists included Mohamed Ali, president of the Criminal Court of Alexandria; Mutlaq Al Qahtani, an international law expert who previously served as the State of Qatar's minister to the United Nations; and Susan Karamanian, associate dean for international and comparative legal studies at The George Washington University Law School.

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.

L'amorce d'un tournant entre Israël et les Etats-Unis

Thu, 28 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In this interview, Justin Vaisse evaluates the degree of change in US-Israeli relations. Rather than a dramatic turn, the Obama administration is pursuing a regional strategy to transform the very conditions in which a bilateral Israeli-Palestinian agreement—which has very little prospect of happening now—is negotiated.

Obama’s Challenge in Cairo

Thu, 28 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As President Obama prepared for his historic speech in Cairo, he faced a dual challenge–not only to redefine the troubled relations between the U.S. and the Muslim world, but also to clarify the place of democracy and human rights in his administration's foreign policy. Brookings expert William Galston previewed Obama’s major address.

The Scouting Report: Re-engaging the Middle East Peace Process

Wed, 27 May 2009 12:30:00 GMT

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May 27, 2009, 12:30 PM to 01:30 PM

In this edition of the Scouting Report, Brookings expert Tamara Cofman Wittes and Politico senior editor Fred Barbash discussed the issues involved with the ongoing Arab-Israeli conflict and re-invigorating the Middle East peace process.

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?

The 2009 Arab Public Opinion Poll: A View from the Middle East

Tue, 19 May 2009 10:00:00 GMT

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May 19, 2009, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

As President Obama prepared to address the greater Muslim world from Egypt, the Saban Center for Middle East Policy at Brookings hosted the release of a new 2009 University of Maryland/Zogby International public opinion poll which reveals long-term trends and surprising revelations about perceptions of the United States and President Barack Obama in the Middle East.

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.

Netanyahu-Obama Meeting: Don't Expect Confrontation

Fri, 15 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In an interview with the Council on Foreign Relations, Martin Indyk downplayed the prospects of any confrontation over the Mideast peace process between President Barack Obama and new Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in their first meeting. Still, he said, Netanyahu could have trouble reconciling Obama's desire for a two-state solution with the Palestinians with opposition from his political base.

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.

Roundtable Discussion on Upcoming Meetings Between Barack Obama and Middle East Leaders

Thu, 14 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

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May 14, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM

On May 14, Foreign Policy at Brookings held a journalist roundtable to discuss upcoming meetings between U.S. President Barack Obama, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, and Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak. Martin Indyk, director of the Saban Center for Middle East Policy, and Tamara Cofman Wittes, senior fellow and director of the Middle East Democracy and Development Project, explored the issues and answered questions.

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.

Combating Al Qaeda: Strategies for the Future

Tue, 12 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In a speech to the International Peace Institute, Bruce Riedel said the situation in Pakistan is “dire and deteriorating,” while al Qaeda's core leadership is alive and remains a deadly threat. He also offered policy suggestions for U.S. policy toward Pakistan and Afghanistan as well as dealing with the issue of terrorism emanating from South Asia.

Prospects for Oil and Gas Cooperation in the Middle East and South Asia

Sun, 10 May 2009 18:00:00 GMT

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May 10, 2009, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

The Brookings Doha Center hosted a discussion on prospects for oil and gas cooperation in the Middle East and South Asia. The panel was addressed by Adel Ahmed Albuainain, the general manager of the Dolphin Energy Limited pipeline project in Qatar; Saleem H. Ali, who has been undertaking research on the topic; and H.E. Mithat Rende, ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to the State of Qatar.

Syria and Turkey Deepen Bilateral Relations

Wed, 06 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The joint Turkish-Syrian exercise and the subsequent military technical agreement show further deepening of bilateral relations between Turkey and Syria. Bilal Saab examines the regional context within which the military exercise was conducted and analyzes its implications for each country and the Middle East. He concludes that Turkish-Syrian relations still fall short of a strategic alliance.

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.

Global Economic Crisis: Prosperity and Politics in Lebanon

Mon, 04 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Navtej Dhillon speaks with Jad Chaaban, author of “The Costs of Youth Exclusion in the Middle East,” about the resilience of Lebanon’s economy during the global recession. With elections approaching, policymakers must protect recent fiscal gains, avoid debt increases, and ensure diverse jobs are available for Lebanon’s youthful electorate. An edited transcript follows.

What Europe Can Do for Iraq: A Blueprint for Action

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

To explore the strategies by which Europe can increase its commitment in Iraq and make a constructive difference, the Center on the U.S. and Europe and the Heinrich Böll Foundation convened a workshop in April 2009. In this paper, Justin Vaisse and Sebastian Gräfe summarize the consolidated advice advocated by the workshop participants.

Netanyahu Redux: Prospects for the New Israeli Government

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 12:30:00 GMT

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April 15, 2009, 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

On April 15, the Saban Center at Brookings hosted Nahum Barnea, Israel's leading political columnist and former Kreiz Fellow at the Saban Center. Barnea discussed Binyamin Netanyahu's second term as Prime Minister of Israel and was joined by Martin Indyk, Director of the Saban Center.