URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RS22967/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
In March 2009, the Obama Administration pledged $900 million in U.S. assistance to the Palestinians to address both post-conflict humanitarian needs in the Gaza Strip and reform, security, and development priorities in the West Bank. Most of the pledged amount remains subject to congressional appropriation.
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
Which Path to Persia? Options for a New American Strategy Toward Iran
URL: http://www.brookings.edu/papers/2009/06_iran_strategy.aspx. Source: The Brookings Institution.
What should the United States do about Iran? The question is easily asked, but for nearly 30 years, Washington has had difficulty coming up with a good answer. The Islamic Republic presents a particularly confounding series of challenges for the United States. Many Iranian leaders regard the United States as their greatest enemy for ideological, nationalistic, and/or security reasons, while a great many average Iranians evince the most pro-American feelings of any in the Muslim world.
What should the United States do about Iran? The question is easily asked, but for nearly 30 years, Washington has had difficulty coming up with a good answer. The Islamic Republic presents a particularly confounding series of challenges for the United States. Many Iranian leaders regard the United States as their greatest enemy for ideological, nationalistic, and/or security reasons, while a great many average Iranians evince the most pro-American feelings of any in the Muslim world.
Report: ‘Swing’ for Ahmadinejad Not Reflected in Turnout Patterns.
URL: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/POMED_blog/~3/j2aNeg-m9Ho/. Source: Chatham House and the Institute of Iranian Studies at the University of St. Andrews.
The report casts a critical eye towards the Islamic Republic’s key assertion that increased voter turnout was the driving force behind Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s success: “If Ahmadinejad’s victory was primarily caused by the increase in voter turnout, one would expect the data to show that the provinces where there was the greatest ’swing’ in support towards Ahmadinejad would also be the provinces with the greatest increase in voter turnout. This is not the case.” The report also pointed out that irregularities in certain sets of polling data gave the impression that the figures may have been “created by a computer.”
The report casts a critical eye towards the Islamic Republic’s key assertion that increased voter turnout was the driving force behind Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s success: “If Ahmadinejad’s victory was primarily caused by the increase in voter turnout, one would expect the data to show that the provinces where there was the greatest ’swing’ in support towards Ahmadinejad would also be the provinces with the greatest increase in voter turnout. This is not the case.” The report also pointed out that irregularities in certain sets of polling data gave the impression that the figures may have been “created by a computer.”
Presidential Power in Iran
URL: http://www.uptilt.com/c.html?rtr=on&s=c7q,17c8n,1xwz,dj1j,3mu8,41pi,9ls. Source: Council on Foreign Relations.
In the aftermath of the contested presidential vote, the power balance between Iran's clergy and its government could crumble. This Backgrounder explains their historical relationship.
In the aftermath of the contested presidential vote, the power balance between Iran's clergy and its government could crumble. This Backgrounder explains their historical relationship.
Middle East Elections 2009: Lebanon, Iran, Afghanistan, and Iraq.
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/R40586/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
The strategic influence of Iran in the Middle East, the stability of Iraq, and the ongoing war in Afghanistan are at the forefront of U.S. policy and Congressional interest in the region. The Obama Administration and many Members of the 111th Congress are making decisions about the U.S. approach to the Middle East at a time when the consequences of recent decisions and events may constrain U.S. options.
The strategic influence of Iran in the Middle East, the stability of Iraq, and the ongoing war in Afghanistan are at the forefront of U.S. policy and Congressional interest in the region. The Obama Administration and many Members of the 111th Congress are making decisions about the U.S. approach to the Middle East at a time when the consequences of recent decisions and events may constrain U.S. options.
“Maghreb Integration and the Four-Sided Development Squeeze.
URL: http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=9413617&msgid=209212&act=6PKN&c=143157&admin=0&destination=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cipe-arabia.org%2Ffiles%2Fpdf%2FMaghreb.pdf. Source: CIPE
This article highlights the demographic and competitive challenges North Africa faces as well as the opportunities regional integration affords. The article is particularly timely given the launch of the first Maghreb Employers' Union on May 13, a meeting between Maghreb business leaders to foster greater economic cooperation.
This article highlights the demographic and competitive challenges North Africa faces as well as the opportunities regional integration affords. The article is particularly timely given the launch of the first Maghreb Employers' Union on May 13, a meeting between Maghreb business leaders to foster greater economic cooperation.
Lebanon: Background and U.S. Relations
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/R40054/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
Lebanon is a religiously diverse, democratic state transitioning toward independence after a ruinous civil war and the Syrian and Israeli occupations that followed. The United States and Lebanon have historically enjoyed a good relationship due in part to cultural and religious ties; the democratic character of the state; a large, Lebanese-American community in the United States; and the pro-western orientation of Lebanon, particularly during the Cold War.
Lebanon is a religiously diverse, democratic state transitioning toward independence after a ruinous civil war and the Syrian and Israeli occupations that followed. The United States and Lebanon have historically enjoyed a good relationship due in part to cultural and religious ties; the democratic character of the state; a large, Lebanese-American community in the United States; and the pro-western orientation of Lebanon, particularly during the Cold War.
Mapping the Arabic Blogosphere
URL: http://cyber.law.harvard.edu/sites/cyber.law.harvard.edu/files/Mapping_the_Arabic_Blogosphere.pdf. Source: Berkman Center for Internet & Democracy.
Mapping the Arabic Blogosphere” uses a unique methodology that blends link analysis, term frequency analysis, and human coding of individual blogs to investigate the online discussions taking place across the Middle East and North Africa. Internet & Democracy project director Bruce Etling and his team, with Morningside Analytics founder and Berkman affiliate John Kelly, and co-authors Robert Faris and John Palfrey, identified a base network of approximately 35,000 active blogs (about half as many as found in their previous study of the Persian blogosphere), created a network map of the 6,000 most connected blogs, and with a group of Arabic speakers hand coded 4,000 blogs.
Mapping the Arabic Blogosphere” uses a unique methodology that blends link analysis, term frequency analysis, and human coding of individual blogs to investigate the online discussions taking place across the Middle East and North Africa. Internet & Democracy project director Bruce Etling and his team, with Morningside Analytics founder and Berkman affiliate John Kelly, and co-authors Robert Faris and John Palfrey, identified a base network of approximately 35,000 active blogs (about half as many as found in their previous study of the Persian blogosphere), created a network map of the 6,000 most connected blogs, and with a group of Arabic speakers hand coded 4,000 blogs.
The Iran Sanctions Act (ISA)
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RS20871/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
International pressure on Iran to curb its nuclear program is increasing the hesitation of many major foreign firms to invest in Irans energy sector, hindering Irans efforts to expand oil production beyond 4.1 million barrels per day. However, Iran continues to attract energy investment interest from firms primarily in Asia, which appear eager to fill the void left by major European and American firms and to line up steady supplies of Iranian oil and gas
International pressure on Iran to curb its nuclear program is increasing the hesitation of many major foreign firms to invest in Irans energy sector, hindering Irans efforts to expand oil production beyond 4.1 million barrels per day. However, Iran continues to attract energy investment interest from firms primarily in Asia, which appear eager to fill the void left by major European and American firms and to line up steady supplies of Iranian oil and gas
Iran: U.S. Concerns and Policy Responses
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL32048/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
President Obama has said his Administration shares the goals of the previous Administration on Iran, but the Obama Administration is formulating strategies and approaches to achieve those goals that differ from those of its predecessor. According to President Obama, the Administration intends to expand direct diplomatic engagement with Iran.
President Obama has said his Administration shares the goals of the previous Administration on Iran, but the Obama Administration is formulating strategies and approaches to achieve those goals that differ from those of its predecessor. According to President Obama, the Administration intends to expand direct diplomatic engagement with Iran.
Egypt: Background and U.S. Relations.
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL33003/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
This report provides an overview of Egyptian politics and current issues in U.S.-Egyptian relations. It briefly provides a political history of modern Egypt, an overview of its political institutions, and a discussion of the prospects for democratization in Egypt. U.S. policy toward Egypt is aimed at maintaining regional stability, improving bilateral relations, continuing military cooperation, and sustaining the March 1979 Egyptian-Israeli peace treaty.
This report provides an overview of Egyptian politics and current issues in U.S.-Egyptian relations. It briefly provides a political history of modern Egypt, an overview of its political institutions, and a discussion of the prospects for democratization in Egypt. U.S. policy toward Egypt is aimed at maintaining regional stability, improving bilateral relations, continuing military cooperation, and sustaining the March 1979 Egyptian-Israeli peace treaty.
Assessing Lebanon's Elections
URL: http://cl.exct.net/?qs=be504bf5d20ea7e0a5683c73248ad3569f4078afda744bac82337f9e6995db18. Source: USIP.
This is the first of two reports on the high stakes in these elections, the key parties competing for power, as well as opportunities for reform and reconciliation. The report is based on research conducted in Lebanon as part of a pre-election observation trip sponsored by the National Democratic Institute as well as the author's ongoing work as director of the Institute's Lebanon Working Group.
This is the first of two reports on the high stakes in these elections, the key parties competing for power, as well as opportunities for reform and reconciliation. The report is based on research conducted in Lebanon as part of a pre-election observation trip sponsored by the National Democratic Institute as well as the author's ongoing work as director of the Institute's Lebanon Working Group.
NGO Letter to Secretary Clinton: Take Action on Crisis in Peru
URL: http://www.wola.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=viewp&id=929&Itemid=2. Source: Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA)
The Washington Office on Latin America along with 12 other human rights organizations wrote a letter today, June 12, 2009, to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton requesting that the United States Government take immediate, concrete and public action to help resolve the escalating social and political crisis in Peru.
The Washington Office on Latin America along with 12 other human rights organizations wrote a letter today, June 12, 2009, to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton requesting that the United States Government take immediate, concrete and public action to help resolve the escalating social and political crisis in Peru.
Latin America and the Caribbean: Fact Sheet on Leaders and Elections
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/98-684/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
This fact sheet tracks the current heads of government in Central and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. It provides the dates of the last and next elections for the head of government and the national independence date for each country.
This fact sheet tracks the current heads of government in Central and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. It provides the dates of the last and next elections for the head of government and the national independence date for each country.
Protect and Serve? The Status of Police Reform in Central America
URL: http://www.wola.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=viewp&id=928&Itemid=2. Source: Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA)
This report paints a portrait of the police in Central America today. It draws on interviews conducted by in-country experts with government officials, current and former police, representatives of international aid agencies, and civil society leaders in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras.
This report paints a portrait of the police in Central America today. It draws on interviews conducted by in-country experts with government officials, current and former police, representatives of international aid agencies, and civil society leaders in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras.
Education and Democratic Preferences
URL: http://idbdocs.iadb.org/wsdocs/getdocument.aspx?docnum=2019014. Source: Inter-American Development Bank (IADB).
This paper examines the causal link between education and democracy. Motivated by a model whereby educated individuals are in a better position to assess the effects of public policies and hence favor democracy where their opinions matter, the empirical analysis uses World Values Surveys to study the link between education and democratic attitudes. Controlling for a variety of characteristics, the paper finds that higher education levels tend to result in rodemocracy views. These results hold across countries with different levels of democracy, thus rejecting the hypothesis that indoctrination through education is an effective tool in non-democratic countries.
This paper examines the causal link between education and democracy. Motivated by a model whereby educated individuals are in a better position to assess the effects of public policies and hence favor democracy where their opinions matter, the empirical analysis uses World Values Surveys to study the link between education and democratic attitudes. Controlling for a variety of characteristics, the paper finds that higher education levels tend to result in rodemocracy views. These results hold across countries with different levels of democracy, thus rejecting the hypothesis that indoctrination through education is an effective tool in non-democratic countries.
Democratic Governance, Citizenship, and Legal Identity. Linking Theoretical Discussion and Operational Reality
URL: http://idbdocs.iadb.org/wsdocs/getdocument.aspx?docnum=2012487. Source: Inter-American Development Bank (IADB).
This working paper explores the importance of legal identity from both a theoretical and operational point of view. The need to investigate and deepen the understanding of the implications of being sans papiers in relation to social exclusion and governance issues is highlighted. This paper argues that proof of an adequate and secure identity document is not only the base of a democratic society and obligation of all governments, but also a fundamental citizenship right.
This working paper explores the importance of legal identity from both a theoretical and operational point of view. The need to investigate and deepen the understanding of the implications of being sans papiers in relation to social exclusion and governance issues is highlighted. This paper argues that proof of an adequate and secure identity document is not only the base of a democratic society and obligation of all governments, but also a fundamental citizenship right.
An Uncivil Approach to Civil Society Continuing State Curbs on Independent NGOs and Activists in Russia
URL: http://www.hrw.org/en/reports/2009/06/16/uncivil-approach-civil-society. Source: Human Rights Watch.
This 68-page report describes how current rules allow the state to interfere arbitrarily with the work of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and documents the corrosive impact of these rules and other government measures on independent organizations and activists in Russia. The report states that increased pressure on these groups has been only one part of growing authoritarianism in Russia.
This 68-page report describes how current rules allow the state to interfere arbitrarily with the work of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and documents the corrosive impact of these rules and other government measures on independent organizations and activists in Russia. The report states that increased pressure on these groups has been only one part of growing authoritarianism in Russia.
Russian Energy Policy Toward Neighboring Countries Steven Woehrel Specialist in European Affairs.
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL34261/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
Russian Energy Policy Toward Neighboring Countries Congressional Research Service Summary Russian oil and natural gas industries have become key players in the global energy market, particularly in Europe and Eurasia. Another trend has been the increasing concentration of these industries in the hands of the Russian government. This latter phenomenon has been accompanied by an increasingly authoritarian political system, in which former intelligence officers play key roles.
Russian Energy Policy Toward Neighboring Countries Congressional Research Service Summary Russian oil and natural gas industries have become key players in the global energy market, particularly in Europe and Eurasia. Another trend has been the increasing concentration of these industries in the hands of the Russian government. This latter phenomenon has been accompanied by an increasingly authoritarian political system, in which former intelligence officers play key roles.
IRI Releases Survey of Kazakhstan Public Opinion, June 25, 2009
URL: http://www.iri.org/newsreleases/2009-May_Kaz_Poll.asp. Source: IRI.
The poll, conducted May 9-23, 2009, is a comprehensive analysis of attitudes regarding the Kazakhstani economic, social and political landscape. IRI has conducted surveys in Kazakhstan since 2005, including three national polls over the past 10 months
The poll, conducted May 9-23, 2009, is a comprehensive analysis of attitudes regarding the Kazakhstani economic, social and political landscape. IRI has conducted surveys in Kazakhstan since 2005, including three national polls over the past 10 months
Journalists in Russia, 1993 to 2009 Deaths and Disappearances
URL: http://journalists-in-russia.org/journalists/. Source: International Foundation for Journalists in collaboration with the Russian Union of Journalists, the Glasnost Defence Foundation and the Centre for Journalism in Extreme Situations.
The murder of Russian journalist Anna Politkovskaya in October 2006 shocked the world. "Yet for every Anna, there have been many less widely known journalists killed for their work across Russia," says the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) in a groundbreaking report on the 313 Russian journalists killed since 1993. The report also reveals that the total impunity that existed for killers of journalists until 1997 has gradually receded, and that an increasing number of investigations have led to prosecutions and a form of "partial justice."
The murder of Russian journalist Anna Politkovskaya in October 2006 shocked the world. "Yet for every Anna, there have been many less widely known journalists killed for their work across Russia," says the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) in a groundbreaking report on the 313 Russian journalists killed since 1993. The report also reveals that the total impunity that existed for killers of journalists until 1997 has gradually receded, and that an increasing number of investigations have led to prosecutions and a form of "partial justice."
Georgia-Russia: Still Insecure and Dangerous
URL: "blank">http://www.crisisgroup.org/home/index.cfm?id=6171&l=1. Source: International Crisis Group.
This report examines the situation ten months after the August 2008 war and finds deep cause for concern. Moscow’s 15 June Security Council veto of an extension of the sixteen-year-old UN observer mission’s mandate in Georgia and Abkhazia and its apparent intention to require the removal of the mission of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) by 30 June are blows to regional security that will fuel tensions.
This report examines the situation ten months after the August 2008 war and finds deep cause for concern. Moscow’s 15 June Security Council veto of an extension of the sixteen-year-old UN observer mission’s mandate in Georgia and Abkhazia and its apparent intention to require the removal of the mission of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) by 30 June are blows to regional security that will fuel tensions.
Future of the Balkans and U.S. Policy Concerns
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL32136/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
The United States, its allies, and local leaders have achieved substantial successes in the Balkans since the mid-1990s. The wars in the region have ended, and all of the countries are undertaking political and economic reforms at home and orienting their foreign policies toward Euro-Atlantic institutions. However, difficult challenges remain, including dealing with the impact of Kosovos independence; fighting organized crime, corruption, and enforcing the rule of law; bringing war criminals to justice; and reforming the economies of the region.
The United States, its allies, and local leaders have achieved substantial successes in the Balkans since the mid-1990s. The wars in the region have ended, and all of the countries are undertaking political and economic reforms at home and orienting their foreign policies toward Euro-Atlantic institutions. However, difficult challenges remain, including dealing with the impact of Kosovos independence; fighting organized crime, corruption, and enforcing the rule of law; bringing war criminals to justice; and reforming the economies of the region.
Central Asia: Regional Developments and Implications for U.S. Interests
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL33458/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the United States recognized the independence of all the former Central Asian republics, supported their admission into Western organizations, and elicited regional support to counter Iranian influence in the region. Congress was at the forefront in urging the formation of coherent U.S. policies for aiding these and other Eurasian states of the former Soviet Union.
After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the United States recognized the independence of all the former Central Asian republics, supported their admission into Western organizations, and elicited regional support to counter Iranian influence in the region. Congress was at the forefront in urging the formation of coherent U.S. policies for aiding these and other Eurasian states of the former Soviet Union.
Bringing Security Home: Combating Violence Against Women in the OSCE Region - A Compilation of Good Practices
URL: http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/lib.nsf/db900sid/SNAA-7TA7U8/$file/osce_gbv_en.pdf?openelement. Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).
This publication documents more than 95 good practices to help eliminate gender-based violence and highlights their impact in preventing violence against women, protecting victims and prosecuting offenders. Strategies for involving men and young people in anti-violence activities are also described.
This publication documents more than 95 good practices to help eliminate gender-based violence and highlights their impact in preventing violence against women, protecting victims and prosecuting offenders. Strategies for involving men and young people in anti-violence activities are also described.
North Korea: Getting Back to Talks
URL: http://www.crisisgroup.org/home/index.cfm?id=6163&l=1. Source: International Crisis Group.
North Korea: Getting Back to Talks, the latest policy report from the International Crisis Group, examines the international community’s options in the wake of the test and the UNSC resolution. It is being published simultaneously with two background reports on the country’s military capabilities: North Korea’s Nuclear and Missile Programs and North Korea’s Chemical and Biological Weapons Programs.
North Korea: Getting Back to Talks, the latest policy report from the International Crisis Group, examines the international community’s options in the wake of the test and the UNSC resolution. It is being published simultaneously with two background reports on the country’s military capabilities: North Korea’s Nuclear and Missile Programs and North Korea’s Chemical and Biological Weapons Programs.
China's Green Dam, the implications of government control encroaching on home PCs
URL: http://opennet.net/chinas-green-dam-the-implications-government-control-encroaching-home-pc. Source: The OpenNet Initiative (ONI)
This report evaluates the functional elements of China's Green Dam software and explores the possible effects of its implementation on a national scale. ONI reports that Green Dam is deeply flawed and poses critical security concerns for users, and may facilitate a much more intrusive mechanism for filtering and surveillance.
This report evaluates the functional elements of China's Green Dam software and explores the possible effects of its implementation on a national scale. ONI reports that Green Dam is deeply flawed and poses critical security concerns for users, and may facilitate a much more intrusive mechanism for filtering and surveillance.
Cambodia: Background and U.S. Relations Thomas Lum Specialist in Asian Affairs
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL32986/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
In the past few years, U.S. policy toward the Kingdom of Cambodia has broadened from a human rights focus to a multi-faceted approach. A key challenge for U.S. policy toward Cambodia lies in combining and balancing efforts to improve relations and to promote human rights and democracy in the kingdom.
In the past few years, U.S. policy toward the Kingdom of Cambodia has broadened from a human rights focus to a multi-faceted approach. A key challenge for U.S. policy toward Cambodia lies in combining and balancing efforts to improve relations and to promote human rights and democracy in the kingdom.
Burma and Transnational Crime.
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL34225/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
Transnational organized crime groups in Burma (Myanmar) operate a multi-billion dollar criminal industry that stretches across Southeast Asia. Trafficked drugs, humans, wildlife, gems, timber, and other contraband flow through Burma, supporting the illicit demands of the region and beyond. Widespread collusion between traffickers and Burmas ruling military junta, the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC), allows organized crime groups to function with impunity.
Transnational organized crime groups in Burma (Myanmar) operate a multi-billion dollar criminal industry that stretches across Southeast Asia. Trafficked drugs, humans, wildlife, gems, timber, and other contraband flow through Burma, supporting the illicit demands of the region and beyond. Widespread collusion between traffickers and Burmas ruling military junta, the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC), allows organized crime groups to function with impunity.
Assistance to North Korea.
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/R40095/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
Since 1995, the United States has provided North Korea with over $1.2 billion in assistance, about 60% of which has paid for food aid and about 40% for energy assistance. U.S. aid fell significantly in the mid-2000s, bottoming out at zero in 2006. The Bush Administration resumed energy aid in the fall of 2007, after progress was made in the Six-Party Talks over North Koreas nuclear program.
Since 1995, the United States has provided North Korea with over $1.2 billion in assistance, about 60% of which has paid for food aid and about 40% for energy assistance. U.S. aid fell significantly in the mid-2000s, bottoming out at zero in 2006. The Bush Administration resumed energy aid in the fall of 2007, after progress was made in the Six-Party Talks over North Koreas nuclear program.
IRI Releases Survey of Afghanistan Public Opinion, June 16, 2009.
URL: http://www.iri.org/newsreleases/2009-06-16-Afghanistan.asp. Source: IRI.
IRI today released its latest survey of Afghanistan public opinion. The poll, conducted May 3-16, 2009. IRI has conducted surveys in Afghanistan since 2003. The goal of the research program is to gauge Afghan public opinion and to use the information in support of Afghanistan’s elections process.
IRI today released its latest survey of Afghanistan public opinion. The poll, conducted May 3-16, 2009. IRI has conducted surveys in Afghanistan since 2003. The goal of the research program is to gauge Afghan public opinion and to use the information in support of Afghanistan’s elections process.
Afghanistan: Post-Taliban Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL30588/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
Afghanistan: Post-Taliban Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy Congressional Research Service Summary Upon taking office, the Obama Administration faced a deteriorating security environment in Afghanistan, including an expanding militant presence in some areas, increasing numbers of civilian and military deaths, growing disillusionment with corruption in the government of Afghan President Hamid Karzai, and Pakistans inability to prevent Taliban and other militant infiltration into Afghanistan.
Afghanistan: Post-Taliban Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy Congressional Research Service Summary Upon taking office, the Obama Administration faced a deteriorating security environment in Afghanistan, including an expanding militant presence in some areas, increasing numbers of civilian and military deaths, growing disillusionment with corruption in the government of Afghan President Hamid Karzai, and Pakistans inability to prevent Taliban and other militant infiltration into Afghanistan.
Afghanistan’s Election Challenges
URL: http://www.crisisgroup.org/home/index.cfm?id=6176&l=1. Source: International Crisis Group.
This report evaluates the challenges of the presidential and provincial council elections in August 2009 and suggests ways to strengthen processes and institutions in the run-up to National Assembly and district elections in 2010. In particular, outstanding constitutional questions need to be resolved, and there must be a better balance between the branches of government to ensure more equitable representation and increased accountability.
This report evaluates the challenges of the presidential and provincial council elections in August 2009 and suggests ways to strengthen processes and institutions in the run-up to National Assembly and district elections in 2010. In particular, outstanding constitutional questions need to be resolved, and there must be a better balance between the branches of government to ensure more equitable representation and increased accountability.
Zimbabwe: The Power Sharing Agreement and Implications for U.S. Policy
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL34509/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
After almost a year of uncertainty following Zimbabwes March 2008 elections, opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai was sworn as Prime Minister of a new coalition government on February 11, 2009. The new governments establishment comes five months after a power-sharing agreement was signed in an effort to resolve the political standoff resulting from the flawed 2008 elections.
After almost a year of uncertainty following Zimbabwes March 2008 elections, opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai was sworn as Prime Minister of a new coalition government on February 11, 2009. The new governments establishment comes five months after a power-sharing agreement was signed in an effort to resolve the political standoff resulting from the flawed 2008 elections.
Uganda: Current Conditions and the Crisis in North Uganda
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL33701/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
In February 2006, Ugandans voted in the first multi-party elections in almost 26 years. President Yoweri Museveni and his ruling National Revolutionary Movement (NRM) parliamentary candidates won a decisive victory over opposition candidate Kizza Besigye and the Forum for Democracy Coalition.
In February 2006, Ugandans voted in the first multi-party elections in almost 26 years. President Yoweri Museveni and his ruling National Revolutionary Movement (NRM) parliamentary candidates won a decisive victory over opposition candidate Kizza Besigye and the Forum for Democracy Coalition.
Sudan: The Crisis in Darfur and Status of the North-South Peace Agreement
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL33574/. Source: Congressional Research.
Sudan, geographically the largest country in Africa, has been ravaged by civil war intermittently for four decades. More than 2 million people have died in Southern Sudan over the past two decades due to war-related causes and famine, and millions have been displaced from their homes.
Sudan, geographically the largest country in Africa, has been ravaged by civil war intermittently for four decades. More than 2 million people have died in Southern Sudan over the past two decades due to war-related causes and famine, and millions have been displaced from their homes.
Somalia: Current Conditions and Prospects for a Lasting Peace.
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL33911/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
In October 2002, the Inter-Governmental Authority for Development (IGAD) launched a peace process designed to end factional fighting in Somalia, led by the government of Kenya. In September 2003, the parties agreed on a Transitional National Charter (TNC). In August 2004, a 275-member Transitional Parliament was inaugurated in Kenya. In October 2004, parliament elected Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed as the new president of Somalia.
In October 2002, the Inter-Governmental Authority for Development (IGAD) launched a peace process designed to end factional fighting in Somalia, led by the government of Kenya. In September 2003, the parties agreed on a Transitional National Charter (TNC). In August 2004, a 275-member Transitional Parliament was inaugurated in Kenya. In October 2004, parliament elected Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed as the new president of Somalia.
Rwanda: Background and Current Developments
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/R40115/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
In 2003, Rwanda held its first multi-party presidential and parliamentary elections in decades. President Paul Kagame of the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF) won 95% of the votes cast, while his nearest rival, Faustin Twagiramungu, received 3.6 % of the votes cast. In the legislative elections, the ruling RPF won 73% in the 80-seat National Assembly, while the remaining seats went to RPF allies and former coalition partners.
In 2003, Rwanda held its first multi-party presidential and parliamentary elections in decades. President Paul Kagame of the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF) won 95% of the votes cast, while his nearest rival, Faustin Twagiramungu, received 3.6 % of the votes cast. In the legislative elections, the ruling RPF won 73% in the 80-seat National Assembly, while the remaining seats went to RPF allies and former coalition partners.
The Risk of Return: Repatriating the Displaced in the Context of Conflict in Eastern Chad
URL: http://www.hrw.org/en/reports/2009/06/19/risk-return-0. Source: Human Rights Watch.
This 47-page report documents abuses against people who have been returning to their villages from camps for displaced persons in southeastern Chad. The Chadian government should work to improve security in rural areas where many of the displaced are returning. At the same time, the United Nations should make sure that food aid continues to displaced persons living in camps so that they are not compelled to cultivate crops in unsafe areas, the report says.
This 47-page report documents abuses against people who have been returning to their villages from camps for displaced persons in southeastern Chad. The Chadian government should work to improve security in rural areas where many of the displaced are returning. At the same time, the United Nations should make sure that food aid continues to displaced persons living in camps so that they are not compelled to cultivate crops in unsafe areas, the report says.
Pursuit of Power: Political Violence and Repression in Burundi
URL: http://www.hrw.org/en/reports/2009/06/03/pursuit-power. Source: Human Rights Watch.
This 86-page report details cases in which both the FNL and the government, dominated by the ruling National Council for the Defense of Democracy-Forces for the Defense of Democracy (Conseil National pour la Défense de la Démocratie-Forces pour la Défense de la Démocratie, CNDD-FDD), have used political violence and intimidation against opponents and dissenting voices in their own ranks.
This 86-page report details cases in which both the FNL and the government, dominated by the ruling National Council for the Defense of Democracy-Forces for the Defense of Democracy (Conseil National pour la Défense de la Démocratie-Forces pour la Défense de la Démocratie, CNDD-FDD), have used political violence and intimidation against opponents and dissenting voices in their own ranks.
Piracy off the Horn of Africa
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/R40528/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
Recent attacks, including those on U.S.-flagged vessels, in the waters off the Horn of Africa have brought new U.S. and international attention to the long-standing problem of piracy in the region.
Recent attacks, including those on U.S.-flagged vessels, in the waters off the Horn of Africa have brought new U.S. and international attention to the long-standing problem of piracy in the region.
Madagascar's 2009 Political Crisis
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/R40448/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
Political tensions on the Indian Ocean island of Madagascar between President Marc Ravalomanana and Andry Rajoelina, the former mayor of the capital city, escalated in early 2009, culminating in the Presidents forced removal from office. In preceding weeks, over 135 people had been killed in riots and demonstrations.
Political tensions on the Indian Ocean island of Madagascar between President Marc Ravalomanana and Andry Rajoelina, the former mayor of the capital city, escalated in early 2009, culminating in the Presidents forced removal from office. In preceding weeks, over 135 people had been killed in riots and demonstrations.
Kenya: Current Conditions and the Challenges Ahead
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL34378/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
Kenya, a nation of about 36.9 million people, has been an important ally of the United States for decades. Kenya moved from a one-party state to a multi-party democracy in 1992. Kenyans voted in record numbers in the countrys first multi-party election in almost 26 years. President Daniel arap Moi defeated opposition candidates by a small margin.
Kenya, a nation of about 36.9 million people, has been an important ally of the United States for decades. Kenya moved from a one-party state to a multi-party democracy in 1992. Kenyans voted in record numbers in the countrys first multi-party election in almost 26 years. President Daniel arap Moi defeated opposition candidates by a small margin.
Guinea-Bissau: Beyond Rule of the Gun
URL: http://www.crisisgroup.org/home/index.cfm?id=6177&l=1. Source: International Crisis Group.
This report warns that the killings of General Tagme (the chief of defence staff) and President Vieira in March, as well as the recent assassinations of opposition leaders and former ministers, are an indication the democratic process cannot cope. The military’s use of force has overwhelmed state institutions. Both the political elites and the international community must send a strong message condemning the widespread abuses committed by the armed forces.
This report warns that the killings of General Tagme (the chief of defence staff) and President Vieira in March, as well as the recent assassinations of opposition leaders and former ministers, are an indication the democratic process cannot cope. The military’s use of force has overwhelmed state institutions. Both the political elites and the international community must send a strong message condemning the widespread abuses committed by the armed forces.
Who Answers to Women? Progress of the World’s Women 2008/2009
URL: http://www.unifem.org/progress/2008/publication.html. Source: UNIFEM.
This report focuses on five key areas where the need to strengthen accountability to women is urgent: politics and governance, access to public services, economic opportunities, justice, and finally the distribution of international assistance for development and security.
This report focuses on five key areas where the need to strengthen accountability to women is urgent: politics and governance, access to public services, economic opportunities, justice, and finally the distribution of international assistance for development and security.
Strategies for Effective Policy Advocacy: Demanding Good Governance in Africa
URL: http:/www.saiia.org.za/research-reports/saiia-research-report-no.-3-june-2009.html. Source: South African Institute of International Affairs.
This study is based on a research project carried out as part of the Governance and African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) Programme of the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA). This study attempts to distil lessons learned by a handful of African civil society coalitions on the dynamics of demanding improved governance of governments that are often averse to governance reform.
This study is based on a research project carried out as part of the Governance and African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) Programme of the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA). This study attempts to distil lessons learned by a handful of African civil society coalitions on the dynamics of demanding improved governance of governments that are often averse to governance reform.
State of the World's Minorities and Indigenous Peoples 2009.
URL: http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/lib.nsf/db900SID/SNAA-7TZ82G?OpenDocument. Source - Minority Rights Group.
In a unique collaboration with UNICEF, Minority Rights Group International reports on what minority and indigenous children around the world face in their struggle to learn. State of the World’s Minorities and Indigenous Peoples 2009 profiles the programmes that are being developed to help them – from better bilingual education to meeting the needs of nomadic populations – giving examples of what works and why. It describes efforts to overcome exclusion so that education is available, accessible, acceptable and adaptable for minorities and indigenous peoples, and shows how far there is still to go.
In a unique collaboration with UNICEF, Minority Rights Group International reports on what minority and indigenous children around the world face in their struggle to learn. State of the World’s Minorities and Indigenous Peoples 2009 profiles the programmes that are being developed to help them – from better bilingual education to meeting the needs of nomadic populations – giving examples of what works and why. It describes efforts to overcome exclusion so that education is available, accessible, acceptable and adaptable for minorities and indigenous peoples, and shows how far there is still to go.
Selling Justice Short: Why Accountability Matters for Peace
URL: http://www.hrw.org/en/reports/2009/07/07/selling-justice-short-0. Source: Human Rights Watch.
This 128-page report draws upon Human Rights Watch's work over the past 20 years in nearly 20 countries. The report documents how ignoring atrocities reinforces a culture of impunity that encourages future abuses. Rather than impede negotiations or a transition to peace, remaining firm on justice can yield short- and long-term benefits. Anticipated negative consequences of pressing for accountability often do not come to pass. Justice is also important as a matter of principle. Fair trials may assist in restoring dignity to victims by acknowledging their suffering.
This 128-page report draws upon Human Rights Watch's work over the past 20 years in nearly 20 countries. The report documents how ignoring atrocities reinforces a culture of impunity that encourages future abuses. Rather than impede negotiations or a transition to peace, remaining firm on justice can yield short- and long-term benefits. Anticipated negative consequences of pressing for accountability often do not come to pass. Justice is also important as a matter of principle. Fair trials may assist in restoring dignity to victims by acknowledging their suffering.
Peace as Governance? Critical Challenges to Power-Sharing Peace Deals.
URL: http://www.humansecuritygateway.info/documents/UEL_CriticalChallengesPowerSharingPeaceDeals.pdf. Source : The Centre on Human Rights in Conflict, University of East London.
This policy paper seeks to offer insights for policymakers regarding the strengths and weaknesses of the use of power-sharing in peace processes. It is based upon close studies in three countries with protracted armed conflicts and peace processes — Sri Lanka, Sudan, and Colombia—as well as comparative analysis of nearly thirty peace processes involving power-sharing elements since the end of the Cold War.
This policy paper seeks to offer insights for policymakers regarding the strengths and weaknesses of the use of power-sharing in peace processes. It is based upon close studies in three countries with protracted armed conflicts and peace processes — Sri Lanka, Sudan, and Colombia—as well as comparative analysis of nearly thirty peace processes involving power-sharing elements since the end of the Cold War.
New Handbook Guides Journalists through Ethical Dilemmas
URL: http://www.reuterslink.org/news/ethicslaunch.htm. Source: Thomas Reuters Foundation - Reuters Link.
Thomson Reuters Foundation has produced the “Ethics Handbook for Journalists” in English and Arabic versions, using a legacy from journalist Mona Megalli who died from cancer in February 2007. Born and raised in Egypt, Mona moved to the United States in her mid-teens and later became a reporter covering events around the world for more than 20 years. She was committed to the principles of free and fair journalism and, when she learned that illness would cut her life short, she made provision for a fund to promote journalism ethics, focused on the region of her birth.
Thomson Reuters Foundation has produced the “Ethics Handbook for Journalists” in English and Arabic versions, using a legacy from journalist Mona Megalli who died from cancer in February 2007. Born and raised in Egypt, Mona moved to the United States in her mid-teens and later became a reporter covering events around the world for more than 20 years. She was committed to the principles of free and fair journalism and, when she learned that illness would cut her life short, she made provision for a fund to promote journalism ethics, focused on the region of her birth.
Media Sustainability Index (MSI)
URL: http://www.irex.org/msi/index.asp. Source: IREX.
This report provides in-depth analyses of the conditions for independent media in 76 countries across Africa, Europe, Eurasia, and the Middle East. Since the Eurasian MSI was first conceived in 2000, in cooperation with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the MSI has evolved into an important benchmark study to assess how media systems change over time and across borders. Since 2006, IREX has also produced an MSI for the Middle East and North Africa, with support from USAID, the US Department of State’s Middle East Policy Initiative, and UNESCO. In 2007 IREX launched the Africa MSI with funding from the Canadian International Development Agency, the World Bank Institute, and USAID.
This report provides in-depth analyses of the conditions for independent media in 76 countries across Africa, Europe, Eurasia, and the Middle East. Since the Eurasian MSI was first conceived in 2000, in cooperation with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the MSI has evolved into an important benchmark study to assess how media systems change over time and across borders. Since 2006, IREX has also produced an MSI for the Middle East and North Africa, with support from USAID, the US Department of State’s Middle East Policy Initiative, and UNESCO. In 2007 IREX launched the Africa MSI with funding from the Canadian International Development Agency, the World Bank Institute, and USAID.
Monday, November 30, 2009
IREX Highlights: Celebrating 40 Years of Innovation in Development
URL: http://www.irex.org/resources/annual/2008highlights.pdf. Source: IFEX.
2008 marks 40 years since IREX's founding. This document presents images of our work around the world, success stories of several of our programs, as well as a timeline of our history. Stories include a resource center for blind students in Tajikistan, media sustainability assessments in Sub-Saharan Africa, Sunni and Alawite youth working together in Lebanon, and more.
2008 marks 40 years since IREX's founding. This document presents images of our work around the world, success stories of several of our programs, as well as a timeline of our history. Stories include a resource center for blind students in Tajikistan, media sustainability assessments in Sub-Saharan Africa, Sunni and Alawite youth working together in Lebanon, and more.
ITUC annual survey of trade union rights violations
URL: http://ent.groundspring.org/EmailNow/pub.php?module=URLTracker&cmd=track&j=284374393&u=3121201. Source: ITUC.
According to the report on workers' rights in 143 countries, over 76 trade unionists defending workers' rights died as a result of targeted killings, and many more experienced physical attacks and other forms of intimidation. The number of killings in Colombia, which is deemed the most dangerous place on earth for trade unionists, reached 49 - an increase of 10 over the previous year. Nine unionists were murdered in Guatemala, which in recent years has witnessed an increase in violent attacks against trade union representatives and members. In a number of instances, governments were either directly or indirectly involved in the killings. Some 7,500 cases of workers' dismissal as a result of their involvement in trade union activity were recorded in a total of 68 countries, including 20 countries in Africa alone.
According to the report on workers' rights in 143 countries, over 76 trade unionists defending workers' rights died as a result of targeted killings, and many more experienced physical attacks and other forms of intimidation. The number of killings in Colombia, which is deemed the most dangerous place on earth for trade unionists, reached 49 - an increase of 10 over the previous year. Nine unionists were murdered in Guatemala, which in recent years has witnessed an increase in violent attacks against trade union representatives and members. In a number of instances, governments were either directly or indirectly involved in the killings. Some 7,500 cases of workers' dismissal as a result of their involvement in trade union activity were recorded in a total of 68 countries, including 20 countries in Africa alone.
Human Development Report 2009 : Overcoming barriers: Human mobility and development
URL: http://hdr.undp.org/en/reports/global/hdr2009/. Source: UNDP
The report investigates migration in the context of demographic changes and trends in both growth and inequality. It will also present more detailed and nuanced individual, family and village experiences, and explore less visible movements typically pursued by disadvantaged groups such as short term and seasonal migration.
The report investigates migration in the context of demographic changes and trends in both growth and inequality. It will also present more detailed and nuanced individual, family and village experiences, and explore less visible movements typically pursued by disadvantaged groups such as short term and seasonal migration.
Global Forum on Freedom of Expression
URL: http://www.irex.org/resources/annual/2008highlights.pdf. Source: Global Forum on Freedom of Expression.
This June, the Global Forum on Freedom of Expression gathered the world’s most prominent global free expression networks and 500 individuals in Oslo, Norway for a week of seminars, workshops, networking events and lectures. The brief summary report now released gives highlights from the many events during the week of the Global Forum and looks back on some of the memorable discussions between the leading thinkers and activists of the free expression community.
This June, the Global Forum on Freedom of Expression gathered the world’s most prominent global free expression networks and 500 individuals in Oslo, Norway for a week of seminars, workshops, networking events and lectures. The brief summary report now released gives highlights from the many events during the week of the Global Forum and looks back on some of the memorable discussions between the leading thinkers and activists of the free expression community.
Guerrilla Techniques for Online Activism
URL: http://www.freevoice.nl/weblog/view/425/. Source: IFEX.
The Southeast Asian Centre for e-Media, a partner of the Netherlands-based foundation Free Voice, has come up with "Guerrilla Techniques for Online Activism" for online journalists and bloggers to freely "pursue their advocacy goals." Using examples from Malaysia during its election year, the centre outlines some "common guerrilla techniques," such as using multiple anonymous identities, or teaming up with a ghost writer in another (safer) country who will publish articles as if s/he is the one writing them. The guide also offers tips on how you can protect yourself from government detection, including by getting circumvention software from Sesawe.net.
The Southeast Asian Centre for e-Media, a partner of the Netherlands-based foundation Free Voice, has come up with "Guerrilla Techniques for Online Activism" for online journalists and bloggers to freely "pursue their advocacy goals." Using examples from Malaysia during its election year, the centre outlines some "common guerrilla techniques," such as using multiple anonymous identities, or teaming up with a ghost writer in another (safer) country who will publish articles as if s/he is the one writing them. The guide also offers tips on how you can protect yourself from government detection, including by getting circumvention software from Sesawe.net.
Funding Report Confirms Challenging Situation for Free Expression Groups
URL: http://www.ifex.org/international/2009/07/08/ifex_summary_funding.pdf. Source: IFEX.
Organizations promoting freedom of expression are experiencing increasing difficulty finding funding for their work, according to a new study based on the results of a survey of more than 60 IFEX members. The report was released at the Global Forum on Freedom of Expression in Oslo, Norway, in June. The pioneering research looking into recent trends in free expression funding describes a situation where the majority of IFEX members say they are finding it harder now than five years ago to acquire the basic resources to carry out their work - core funding - and what appears to be a shrinking field of possible donors specifically supporting freedom of expression work. Changing donor priorities, finding a suitable fit with members' work and onerous reporting are just a few of the biggest funding challenges IFEX members face.
Organizations promoting freedom of expression are experiencing increasing difficulty finding funding for their work, according to a new study based on the results of a survey of more than 60 IFEX members. The report was released at the Global Forum on Freedom of Expression in Oslo, Norway, in June. The pioneering research looking into recent trends in free expression funding describes a situation where the majority of IFEX members say they are finding it harder now than five years ago to acquire the basic resources to carry out their work - core funding - and what appears to be a shrinking field of possible donors specifically supporting freedom of expression work. Changing donor priorities, finding a suitable fit with members' work and onerous reporting are just a few of the biggest funding challenges IFEX members face.
The Failed States Index 2009
URL: http://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2009/06/22/the_2009_failed_states_index. Source: Foreign Policy.
It is a sobering time for the world’s most fragile countries—virulent economic crisis, countless natural disasters, and government collapse. This year, we delve deeper than ever into just what went wrong—and who is to blame. Yemen may not yet be front-page news, but it’s being watched intently these days in capitals worldwide. A perfect storm of state failure is now brewing there: disappearing oil and water reserves; a mob of migrants, some allegedly with al Qaeda ties, flooding in from Somalia, the failed state next door; and a weak government increasingly unable to keep things running. Many worry Yemen is the next Afghanistan: a global problem wrapped in a failed state.
It is a sobering time for the world’s most fragile countries—virulent economic crisis, countless natural disasters, and government collapse. This year, we delve deeper than ever into just what went wrong—and who is to blame. Yemen may not yet be front-page news, but it’s being watched intently these days in capitals worldwide. A perfect storm of state failure is now brewing there: disappearing oil and water reserves; a mob of migrants, some allegedly with al Qaeda ties, flooding in from Somalia, the failed state next door; and a weak government increasingly unable to keep things running. Many worry Yemen is the next Afghanistan: a global problem wrapped in a failed state.
Freedom in the World 2009
URL: http://freedomhouse.org/template.cfm?page=21&year=2009. Source: Freedom House.
This report examines the state of freedom in 193 countries and 16 strategic territories, assigning each a status of Free, Partly Free or Not Free. The country reports provide a detailed explanation for each country's status, covering topics such as electoral process, governance, women's rights, media independence and basic freedoms such as expression, religion and association. The reports also feature a timeline that shows a country's progress over the last decade. The reports act as a supplemental to the Freedom in the World scores, which Freedom House released in early January along with an overview that briefly explained the key trends observed in 2008, the calendar year examined by the study. The findings indicated a third consecutive year of democratic decline worldwide, with significant reversals in Sub-Saharan Africa and the former Soviet Union and gains in South Asia.
This report examines the state of freedom in 193 countries and 16 strategic territories, assigning each a status of Free, Partly Free or Not Free. The country reports provide a detailed explanation for each country's status, covering topics such as electoral process, governance, women's rights, media independence and basic freedoms such as expression, religion and association. The reports also feature a timeline that shows a country's progress over the last decade. The reports act as a supplemental to the Freedom in the World scores, which Freedom House released in early January along with an overview that briefly explained the key trends observed in 2008, the calendar year examined by the study. The findings indicated a third consecutive year of democratic decline worldwide, with significant reversals in Sub-Saharan Africa and the former Soviet Union and gains in South Asia.
Confidence in Obama Lifts U.S. Image Around the World: Most Muslim Publics Not So Easily Moved
URL: http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102647828087&s=1518&e=001bHYX6l-2ju7c7mNCfDF2qj42V6CqHmKY-Ps4vhk5B2Bu4W1Pn1scStIIJWzkom0iZgabEdkRXlI5mtk5rq3v92DHbtUUbl20Mp1sFe_03Qx70NjSJBpSCJf04qlgnr1rsI-37MoRZZUAdAqmKeQ2ZBYEEm1M_DAo. Source: PEW.
The image of the United States has improved markedly in most parts of the world, reflecting global confidence in Barack Obama. In many countries opinions of the U.S. are now about as positive as they were at the beginning of the decade, before George W. Bush took office. Improvements in the U.S. image have been most pronounced in Western Europe, where favorable ratings have soared. Opinions of America have also become more positive in key countries in Latin America, Africa and Asia. However, the U.S. image has moved little in some predominantly Muslim countries, where deep concerns continue about U.S. policy and America's role in the world despite the president's popularity.
The image of the United States has improved markedly in most parts of the world, reflecting global confidence in Barack Obama. In many countries opinions of the U.S. are now about as positive as they were at the beginning of the decade, before George W. Bush took office. Improvements in the U.S. image have been most pronounced in Western Europe, where favorable ratings have soared. Opinions of America have also become more positive in key countries in Latin America, Africa and Asia. However, the U.S. image has moved little in some predominantly Muslim countries, where deep concerns continue about U.S. policy and America's role in the world despite the president's popularity.
Civic Participation Terminology: A Guide to Frequently Used Terms and Phrases
URL: http://www.ndi.org/node/15472. Source: National Democratic Institute (NDI).
This Glossary is part of NDI’s growing library of publications that form the basis for the Institute’s efforts to create a new and precise lexicon to convey the concepts central to democracy and governance. Putting some of these principles into practice, the Glossary was developed through a consultative process with NDI’s staff in Lebanon, other field offices throughout the Middle East as well as the Institute’s Citizen Participation team. Special thanks also to NDI’s civic partners in the Citizen Lebanon program, who served as the inspiration for this project and also offered valuable feedback throughout the process of development.
This Glossary is part of NDI’s growing library of publications that form the basis for the Institute’s efforts to create a new and precise lexicon to convey the concepts central to democracy and governance. Putting some of these principles into practice, the Glossary was developed through a consultative process with NDI’s staff in Lebanon, other field offices throughout the Middle East as well as the Institute’s Citizen Participation team. Special thanks also to NDI’s civic partners in the Citizen Lebanon program, who served as the inspiration for this project and also offered valuable feedback throughout the process of development.
Tunisia: Current Issues
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RS21666/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
Tunisia has a stable, highly authoritarian government led by President Zine ben Ali, who was elected to a fourth term on October 24, 2004 and will run for a fifth term in October 2009. Ben Alis Constitutional Democratic Rally party controls parliament, state and local governments, and most political activity.
Tunisia has a stable, highly authoritarian government led by President Zine ben Ali, who was elected to a fourth term on October 24, 2004 and will run for a fifth term in October 2009. Ben Alis Constitutional Democratic Rally party controls parliament, state and local governments, and most political activity.
Policy challenges in tackling poverty and vulnerability in the Arab region
URL: http://www.eldis.org/go/country-profiles&id=44044&type=Document. Source: Arab NGO Network for Development.
The Arab region has been particularly vulnerable to the fallout of the global economic crisis as a result of already existing high levels of unemployment, dependency on food imports, widespread conflict and political insecurity and vulnerability to climate change. This paper sheds light on the important policy challenges in the region, reflecting on the effectiveness of current approaches and making recommendations on regional cooperation and areas of social and economic policy-making.
The Arab region has been particularly vulnerable to the fallout of the global economic crisis as a result of already existing high levels of unemployment, dependency on food imports, widespread conflict and political insecurity and vulnerability to climate change. This paper sheds light on the important policy challenges in the region, reflecting on the effectiveness of current approaches and making recommendations on regional cooperation and areas of social and economic policy-making.
Mapping the Arabic Blogosphere: Politics, Culture, and Dissent
URL: http://cyber.law.harvard.edu/publications/2009/Mapping_the_Arabic_Blogosphere. Source: Harvard University, Berkman Center for Internet & Society
We conducted a study of the Arabic language blogosphere using link analysis, term frequency analysis, and human coding of individual blogs. We identified a base network of approximately 35,000 active blogs, created a network map of the 6,000 most connected blogs, and with a team of Arabic speakers hand coded 4,000 blogs. The goal for the study was to produce a baseline assessment of the networked public sphere in the Arab Middle East, and its relationship to a range of emergent issues, including politics, media, religion, culture, and international affairs.
We conducted a study of the Arabic language blogosphere using link analysis, term frequency analysis, and human coding of individual blogs. We identified a base network of approximately 35,000 active blogs, created a network map of the 6,000 most connected blogs, and with a team of Arabic speakers hand coded 4,000 blogs. The goal for the study was to produce a baseline assessment of the networked public sphere in the Arab Middle East, and its relationship to a range of emergent issues, including politics, media, religion, culture, and international affairs.
The Kurds in Post-Saddam Iraq
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RS22079/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
The Kurdish-inhabited region of northern Iraq has been relatively peaceful and prosperous since the fall of Saddam Hussein. However, the Iraqi Kurds political autonomy, and territorial and economic demands, have caused friction with Christian and other minorities in the north, with Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki and other Arab leaders of Iraq, and with neighboring Turkey and Iran. Despite limited agreements allowing for new oil exports from the Kurdish region, the major outstanding issues between the Kurds and the central government do not appear close to resolution.
The Kurdish-inhabited region of northern Iraq has been relatively peaceful and prosperous since the fall of Saddam Hussein. However, the Iraqi Kurds political autonomy, and territorial and economic demands, have caused friction with Christian and other minorities in the north, with Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki and other Arab leaders of Iraq, and with neighboring Turkey and Iran. Despite limited agreements allowing for new oil exports from the Kurdish region, the major outstanding issues between the Kurds and the central government do not appear close to resolution.
Jordan: Background and U.S. Relations
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL33546/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
This report provides an overview of Jordanian politics and current issues in U.S.-Jordanian relations. It provides a brief discussion of Jordans government and economy and of its cooperation in promoting Arab-Israeli peace and other U.S. policy objectives in the Middle East. This report will be updated periodically to reflect new developments.
This report provides an overview of Jordanian politics and current issues in U.S.-Jordanian relations. It provides a brief discussion of Jordans government and economy and of its cooperation in promoting Arab-Israeli peace and other U.S. policy objectives in the Middle East. This report will be updated periodically to reflect new developments.
The Jihadist International: Al Qaeda's Advance in the Levant
URL: http://www.aei.org/paper/100015. Source: American Enterprise Institute (AEI).
September 11, 2001, marked the coming to the fore of the "jihadist international," a loosely connected movement of militant and terrorist groups worldwide with a common ideology and increasingly shared tactics and methods. While such groups still have limited recruitment potential eight years on, they have inflicted substantial physical damage and have forced free societies to take costly precautionary measures. Perhaps most alarming, the global jihadist movement has continued simultaneously to feed off of and perpetuate the growing radicalization that Muslim culture has endured over the last few decades.
September 11, 2001, marked the coming to the fore of the "jihadist international," a loosely connected movement of militant and terrorist groups worldwide with a common ideology and increasingly shared tactics and methods. While such groups still have limited recruitment potential eight years on, they have inflicted substantial physical damage and have forced free societies to take costly precautionary measures. Perhaps most alarming, the global jihadist movement has continued simultaneously to feed off of and perpetuate the growing radicalization that Muslim culture has endured over the last few decades.
Israeli-Arab Negotiations: Background, Conflicts, and U.S. Policy
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL33530/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
After the first Gulf war, in 1991, a new peace process consisting of bilateral negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon achieved mixed results. Milestones included the Israeli-Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) Declaration of Principles (DOP) of September 13, 1993, providing for Palestinian empowerment and some territorial control, the Israeli-Jordanian peace treaty of October 26, 1994, and the Interim Self-Rule in the West Bank or Oslo II accord of September 28, 1995, which led to the formation of the Palestinian Authority (PA) to govern the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
After the first Gulf war, in 1991, a new peace process consisting of bilateral negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon achieved mixed results. Milestones included the Israeli-Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) Declaration of Principles (DOP) of September 13, 1993, providing for Palestinian empowerment and some territorial control, the Israeli-Jordanian peace treaty of October 26, 1994, and the Interim Self-Rule in the West Bank or Oslo II accord of September 28, 1995, which led to the formation of the Palestinian Authority (PA) to govern the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
Iraq and the Kurds: Trouble Along the Trigger Line
URL: http://www.crisisgroup.org/home/index.cfm?id=6207&l=1. Source: International Crisis Group.
This report warns that a new and potentially destructive ethnic conflict has arisen between the Iraqi federal and Kurdistan’s regional government. In particular, tensions have been building steadily along a new, undemarcated “trigger line”, a curve stretching from the Syrian to the Iranian border, where at multiple places the Iraqi army and Kurdish fighters known as peshmergas are arrayed in opposing formations. Both sides have been manoeuvring to gain political, military and territorial advantage before the U.S. withdrawal.
This report warns that a new and potentially destructive ethnic conflict has arisen between the Iraqi federal and Kurdistan’s regional government. In particular, tensions have been building steadily along a new, undemarcated “trigger line”, a curve stretching from the Syrian to the Iranian border, where at multiple places the Iraqi army and Kurdish fighters known as peshmergas are arrayed in opposing formations. Both sides have been manoeuvring to gain political, military and territorial advantage before the U.S. withdrawal.
Iran: U.S. Concerns and Policy Responses
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL32048/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
President Obama has said his Administration shares the goals of the previous Administration to contain Irans strategic capabilities and regional influence, but the Obama Administration has formulated approaches to achieve those goals that differ from those of its predecessorin particular through expanded direct diplomatic engagement with Iran. This effort was put into practice with messages to the Iranian people by President Obama, and through invitations to and contact with Iranian diplomats at multilateral meetings, including those on Irans nuclear program.
President Obama has said his Administration shares the goals of the previous Administration to contain Irans strategic capabilities and regional influence, but the Obama Administration has formulated approaches to achieve those goals that differ from those of its predecessorin particular through expanded direct diplomatic engagement with Iran. This effort was put into practice with messages to the Iranian people by President Obama, and through invitations to and contact with Iranian diplomats at multilateral meetings, including those on Irans nuclear program.
Iran's Activities and Influence in Iraq
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RS22323/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
With a conventional military and weapons of mass destruction (WMD) threat from Saddam Husseins regime removed, Iran seeks to ensure that Iraq can never again become a threat to Iran, either with or without U.S. forces present in Iraq. Some believe that Irans intentions go well beyond achieving Iraqs neutrality that Iran wants to try to harness Iraq to Irans broader regional policy goals and to help Iran defend against international criticism of Irans nuclear program.
With a conventional military and weapons of mass destruction (WMD) threat from Saddam Husseins regime removed, Iran seeks to ensure that Iraq can never again become a threat to Iran, either with or without U.S. forces present in Iraq. Some believe that Irans intentions go well beyond achieving Iraqs neutrality that Iran wants to try to harness Iraq to Irans broader regional policy goals and to help Iran defend against international criticism of Irans nuclear program.
Iran's 2009 Presidential Elections
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/R40653/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
On June 12, 2009, following a heated campaign between reformist candidate Mir Hussein Musavi and incumbent President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Iranians turned out in record numbers to vote in the presidential election. Shortly after the polls closed, the Interior Minister announced that President Ahmadinejad had been reelected by a 62% margin. The announcement was followed by allegations of vote rigging and election fraud and prompted supporters of leading reformist candidate Mir Hussein Musavi and others to hold public demonstrations in several major cities of a size and intensity unprecedented since the Iranian Revolution of 1979.
On June 12, 2009, following a heated campaign between reformist candidate Mir Hussein Musavi and incumbent President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Iranians turned out in record numbers to vote in the presidential election. Shortly after the polls closed, the Interior Minister announced that President Ahmadinejad had been reelected by a 62% margin. The announcement was followed by allegations of vote rigging and election fraud and prompted supporters of leading reformist candidate Mir Hussein Musavi and others to hold public demonstrations in several major cities of a size and intensity unprecedented since the Iranian Revolution of 1979.
Arab human development report 2009 - Challenges to human security in the Arab Countries
URL: http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/rwb.nsf/db900SID/MWAI-7U78JZ?OpenDocument. Source: UNDP.
This is the fifth volume in the series of Arab Human Development Reports sponsored by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and independently authored by intellectuals and scholars from Arab countries.
This is the fifth volume in the series of Arab Human Development Reports sponsored by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and independently authored by intellectuals and scholars from Arab countries.
Nicaragua at War with Media
URL: http://www.ifex.org/nicaragua/2009/07/07/ortega_media_war/. Source: Committee to Protect Journalist.
How do you use the media to maintain an iron grip on your country? If you are Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega, you bypass the independent media, defining them as enemies and moving aggressively to obstruct them, says a special report by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). Driven by decades-old hostilities toward the media, Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega and his wife often claim that private news media is CIA-funded and controlled by an elite class, which they term the "oligarchy."
How do you use the media to maintain an iron grip on your country? If you are Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega, you bypass the independent media, defining them as enemies and moving aggressively to obstruct them, says a special report by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). Driven by decades-old hostilities toward the media, Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega and his wife often claim that private news media is CIA-funded and controlled by an elite class, which they term the "oligarchy."
Honduran-U.S. Relations.
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL34027/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
The Central American nation of Honduras, one of the hemispheres poorest countries, faces significant challenges in the areas of crime, human rights, and improving overall economic and living conditions. While traditional agricultural exports of coffee and bananas are still important for the economy, nontraditional sectors, especially the maquiladora, or export-processing industry, have grown significantly over the past decade. Among the countrys development challenges are a poverty rate over 60%, high infant mortality, and a significant HIV/AIDS epidemic.
The Central American nation of Honduras, one of the hemispheres poorest countries, faces significant challenges in the areas of crime, human rights, and improving overall economic and living conditions. While traditional agricultural exports of coffee and bananas are still important for the economy, nontraditional sectors, especially the maquiladora, or export-processing industry, have grown significantly over the past decade. Among the countrys development challenges are a poverty rate over 60%, high infant mortality, and a significant HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Haiti: Current Conditions and Congressional Concerns
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/R40507/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
Haiti shares the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic. Since the fall of the Duvalier dictatorship in 1986, Haiti has struggled to overcome its centuries-long legacy of authoritarianism, extreme poverty, and underdevelopment. While some progress has been made in developing democratic institutions, they remain weak.
Haiti shares the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic. Since the fall of the Duvalier dictatorship in 1986, Haiti has struggled to overcome its centuries-long legacy of authoritarianism, extreme poverty, and underdevelopment. While some progress has been made in developing democratic institutions, they remain weak.
El Salvador: Political, Economic, and Social Conditions and U.S. Relations
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RS21655/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
Throughout the last few decades, the United States has had a strong interest in El Salvador. During the 1980s, El Salvador was the largest recipient of U.S. aid in Latin America as its government struggled against the Farabundo Marti National Liberation Front (FMLN) insurgency during a 12-year civil war.
Throughout the last few decades, the United States has had a strong interest in El Salvador. During the 1980s, El Salvador was the largest recipient of U.S. aid in Latin America as its government struggled against the Farabundo Marti National Liberation Front (FMLN) insurgency during a 12-year civil war.
Economic Survey of Latin America and the Caribbean 2008-2009
URL: http://www.eclac.cl/cgi-bin/getProd.asp?xml=%20/publicaciones/xml/5/36465/P36465.xml&xsl=/de/tpl-i/p9f.xsl%20&base=/tpl-i/top-bottom.xslt. Source: Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC).
The publication of the sixty-first edition of the Economic Survey of Latin America and the Caribbean, corresponding to 2008-2009, comes at a critical point in the economic development of the Latin American and Caribbean region. A growth phase that the region’s recent history cannot equal in nature and duration has come to an end and output is contracting.
The publication of the sixty-first edition of the Economic Survey of Latin America and the Caribbean, corresponding to 2008-2009, comes at a critical point in the economic development of the Latin American and Caribbean region. A growth phase that the region’s recent history cannot equal in nature and duration has come to an end and output is contracting.
Broadcasting to Cuba: Observations Regarding TV Marti's Strategy and Operations
URL: http://www.gao.gov/docdblite/details.php?rptno=GAO-09-758T. Source: GAO.
This testimony discusses GAO's work on U.S. television broadcasting to Cuba. The United States has been broadcasting to Cuba for more than two decades via Radio Marti and, subsequently, TV Marti to "break the information blockade" and promote freedom and democracy in Cuba. U.S. television broadcasting to Cuba is performed by the Office of Cuba Broadcasting (OCB), which is a U.S. government entity, overseen by the Broadcasting Board of Governors (BBG), and based in Miami. OCB operates TV Marti, which broadcasts news, commentary, and entertainment programming to Cuba.
This testimony discusses GAO's work on U.S. television broadcasting to Cuba. The United States has been broadcasting to Cuba for more than two decades via Radio Marti and, subsequently, TV Marti to "break the information blockade" and promote freedom and democracy in Cuba. U.S. television broadcasting to Cuba is performed by the Office of Cuba Broadcasting (OCB), which is a U.S. government entity, overseen by the Broadcasting Board of Governors (BBG), and based in Miami. OCB operates TV Marti, which broadcasts news, commentary, and entertainment programming to Cuba.
What Your Children Do Will Touch Upon You" : Punitive House-Burning in Chechnya
URL: http://www.hrw.org/en/reports/2009/07/02/what-your-children-do-will-touch-upon-you-0. Source: Human Rights Watch.
This 54-page report documents a distinct pattern of house burnings by security forces to punish families for the alleged actions of their relatives. In 2008, high-level Chechen officials, including President Ramzan Kadyrov, made public statements stating that the families of insurgents should expect to be punished unless they convinced their relatives to surrender. Insurgents have also been using a variety of violent tactics, including house-burning, against members and supporters of the pro-Moscow Chechen authorities.
This 54-page report documents a distinct pattern of house burnings by security forces to punish families for the alleged actions of their relatives. In 2008, high-level Chechen officials, including President Ramzan Kadyrov, made public statements stating that the families of insurgents should expect to be punished unless they convinced their relatives to surrender. Insurgents have also been using a variety of violent tactics, including house-burning, against members and supporters of the pro-Moscow Chechen authorities.
Parties in Russia: From a pseudo-system towards fragmentation
URL: http://www.upi-fiia.fi/en/event/223/. Source: Finnish Institute for International Affairs.
Stability has not been characteristic of the Russian party system: political parties have appeared and disappeared between the federal elections, both politicians and the electorate have changed their affiliation, and legislation regarding political parties and elections has been amended. During the 2000s, the party system has also undergone significant changes.
Stability has not been characteristic of the Russian party system: political parties have appeared and disappeared between the federal elections, both politicians and the electorate have changed their affiliation, and legislation regarding political parties and elections has been amended. During the 2000s, the party system has also undergone significant changes.
New NDI Tool Helps Countries Assess Democratic Readiness for EU Membership
URL: https://contribute.ndi.org/modules/civicrm/extern/url.php?u=483&qid=46253. Source: National Democratic Institute (NDI).
Countries formally applying to join the European Union must meet democratic criteria concerning transparency and accountability in their governance systems. To help them meet these criteria, and to give citizens a sense of progress achieved in democratic reforms, NDI, with funding from the United Nations Development Programme, has developed a first-of-its-kind assessment tool that examines government performance in such vital areas as institutional checks and balances and equal treatment before the law.
Countries formally applying to join the European Union must meet democratic criteria concerning transparency and accountability in their governance systems. To help them meet these criteria, and to give citizens a sense of progress achieved in democratic reforms, NDI, with funding from the United Nations Development Programme, has developed a first-of-its-kind assessment tool that examines government performance in such vital areas as institutional checks and balances and equal treatment before the law.
Kyrgyzstan and the Status of the U.S. Manas Airbase: Context and Implication
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/R40564/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
In February 2009, Kyrgyzstan announced that it was terminating an agreement permitting U.S. forces to upgrade and use portions of the Manas international airport near the capital of Bishkek to support coalition military operations in Afghanistan. U.S. forces faced leaving the airbase by late August 2009.
In February 2009, Kyrgyzstan announced that it was terminating an agreement permitting U.S. forces to upgrade and use portions of the Manas international airport near the capital of Bishkek to support coalition military operations in Afghanistan. U.S. forces faced leaving the airbase by late August 2009.
Economic Survey of Russia 2009
URL: http://www.docuticker.com/?p=26897. Source: Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.
The global crisis put an end to a decade of rapid growth. Russia needs to minimise the downturn and establish a sounder long-term growth model. Growth-friendly product market regulation and a more efficient and resilient banking system will be key.
The global crisis put an end to a decade of rapid growth. Russia needs to minimise the downturn and establish a sounder long-term growth model. Growth-friendly product market regulation and a more efficient and resilient banking system will be key.
IRI Post-Election Watch: Bulgaria
URL: http://www.iri.org/newsreleases/2009-07-election_watch_bulgaria_2.asp/. Source: International Republican Institute (IRI).
National parliamentary elections were held in Bulgaria on July 5, 2009. Following issues and problems in the June 7, 2009, European Parliament elections, many observers had expressed concerns over the parliamentary elections.
National parliamentary elections were held in Bulgaria on July 5, 2009. Following issues and problems in the June 7, 2009, European Parliament elections, many observers had expressed concerns over the parliamentary elections.
Accountability for human rights violations key to normalization in North Caucasus
URL: http://www.amnesty.org/en/news-and-updates/report/accountability-human-rights-violations-key-normalization-north-caucasus-20090701. Source: Amnesty International.
There can be no stability and security for the people of the North Caucasus without an end to human rights violations and full accountability, says a new Amnesty International report.
There can be no stability and security for the people of the North Caucasus without an end to human rights violations and full accountability, says a new Amnesty International report.
Village-by-Village Democracy in China, What Seeds for Freedom?
URL: http://www.aei.org/paper/100007. Source: American Enterprise Insitute (AEI).
In his study of the French Revolution and France's political development, Alexis de Tocqueville concluded that village government can plant the seeds of national freedom--but only if its emerging democratic citizens learn to protect themselves from national-level attempts to coerce, co-opt, or compromise their efforts. China's "village democracy" movement is testing that hypothesis. There are elements of the local village governments--which now boast 905,000 elected committees and 3.7 million locally elected officials--that promote democracy and some that subvert it. Furthermore, China's imperial, Republican, and Maoist periods have also shaped the character of Chinese villagers as prospective democratic citizens. Chinese villagers are using village democracy to gain democratic skills and that, in the process, they are proving Tocqueville wrong in his own assessment of their worthiness for citizenship.
In his study of the French Revolution and France's political development, Alexis de Tocqueville concluded that village government can plant the seeds of national freedom--but only if its emerging democratic citizens learn to protect themselves from national-level attempts to coerce, co-opt, or compromise their efforts. China's "village democracy" movement is testing that hypothesis. There are elements of the local village governments--which now boast 905,000 elected committees and 3.7 million locally elected officials--that promote democracy and some that subvert it. Furthermore, China's imperial, Republican, and Maoist periods have also shaped the character of Chinese villagers as prospective democratic citizens. Chinese villagers are using village democracy to gain democratic skills and that, in the process, they are proving Tocqueville wrong in his own assessment of their worthiness for citizenship.
Taiwan's Political Status: Historical Background and Ongoing Implications
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RS22388/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
In 1979, official U.S. relations with Taiwan (the Republic of China) became a casualty of the American decision to recognize the government of the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) as China's sole legitimate government. Since then, U.S. unofficial relations with Taiwan have been built on the framework of the Taiwan Relations Act (P.L. 96-8) and shaped by three U.S.-China communiques.
In 1979, official U.S. relations with Taiwan (the Republic of China) became a casualty of the American decision to recognize the government of the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) as China's sole legitimate government. Since then, U.S. unofficial relations with Taiwan have been built on the framework of the Taiwan Relations Act (P.L. 96-8) and shaped by three U.S.-China communiques.
Thailand: Background and U.S. Relations
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL32593/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
U.S.-Thailand relations are of interest to Congress because of Thailand's status as a long-time military ally and a significant trade and economic partner. However, ties have been complicated by deep political and economic instability in the wake of the September 2006 coup that displaced Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.
U.S.-Thailand relations are of interest to Congress because of Thailand's status as a long-time military ally and a significant trade and economic partner. However, ties have been complicated by deep political and economic instability in the wake of the September 2006 coup that displaced Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.
Sri Lanka: Background and U.S. Relations
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL31707/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
Sri Lanka, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, is a constitutional democracy with a relatively high level of development. Political, social, and economic development has, however, been seriously constrained by ethnic conflict between the majority Sinhalese and minority Tamil ethnic groups.
Sri Lanka, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, is a constitutional democracy with a relatively high level of development. Political, social, and economic development has, however, been seriously constrained by ethnic conflict between the majority Sinhalese and minority Tamil ethnic groups.
Silence is violence: End the abuse of women in Afghanistan
URL: http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/rwb.nsf/db900SID/PSLG-7TRHRC?OpenDocument. Source: United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA); United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).
Afghanistan is widely known and appreciated for its rich history, culture, literature and arts as well as its magnificent landscape. It is also widely known that large numbers of Afghans die, or live wretched lives, because violence is an everyday fact of life. Such violence is not openly condoned but neither is it challenged nor condemned by society at large or by state institutions. It is primarily human rights activists that make an issue of violence including, in particular, its impact on, and ramifications for, women and girls in Afghanistan.
Afghanistan is widely known and appreciated for its rich history, culture, literature and arts as well as its magnificent landscape. It is also widely known that large numbers of Afghans die, or live wretched lives, because violence is an everyday fact of life. Such violence is not openly condoned but neither is it challenged nor condemned by society at large or by state institutions. It is primarily human rights activists that make an issue of violence including, in particular, its impact on, and ramifications for, women and girls in Afghanistan.
North Korea: Economic Leverage and Policy Analysis
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL32493/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
In 2009, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK or North Korea) embarked on a course that includes a series of extremely provocative military actions, a shift in power toward the military, emphasis on ideological purity, rising criticism of the United States, and going forward with its nuclear and missile program in spite of sanctions and objections from much of the rest of the world.
In 2009, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK or North Korea) embarked on a course that includes a series of extremely provocative military actions, a shift in power toward the military, emphasis on ideological purity, rising criticism of the United States, and going forward with its nuclear and missile program in spite of sanctions and objections from much of the rest of the world.
North Korean Counterfeiting of U.S. Currency
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL33324/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
The United States has accused the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK or North Korea) of counterfeiting U.S. $100 Federal Reserve notes (Supernotes) and passing them off in various countries, although there is some doubt by observers and other governments that the DPRK is capable of creating Supernotes of the quality found.
The United States has accused the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK or North Korea) of counterfeiting U.S. $100 Federal Reserve notes (Supernotes) and passing them off in various countries, although there is some doubt by observers and other governments that the DPRK is capable of creating Supernotes of the quality found.
Mongolia and U.S. Policy: Political and Economic Relations
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL34056/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
Once a Soviet satellite state ruled by the communist Mongolian Peoples Revolutionary Party (MPRP), Mongolia underwent a democratic transformation in 1990 after public demonstrations for political pluralism led to the resignation of the MPRP government. Since then, Mongolia has been undergoing a chaotic political and economic transition to a parliamentary democracy under new constitutional rules adopted in 1991.
Once a Soviet satellite state ruled by the communist Mongolian Peoples Revolutionary Party (MPRP), Mongolia underwent a democratic transformation in 1990 after public demonstrations for political pluralism led to the resignation of the MPRP government. Since then, Mongolia has been undergoing a chaotic political and economic transition to a parliamentary democracy under new constitutional rules adopted in 1991.
Indonesia: Domestic Politics, Strategic Dynamics, and American Interests
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL32394/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
Indonesia is the worlds fourth most populous country and the most populous Muslim nation. It is also a moderate Muslim state that is strategically positioned astride key sea lanes that link East Asia with the energy resources of the Middle East. Indonesia is seen by many as a valuable partner in the struggle against radical Islamist militants in Southeast Asia. Indonesia is continuing to democratize and develop its civil society and rule of law under the leadership of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY), who many view as reform-minded.
Indonesia is the worlds fourth most populous country and the most populous Muslim nation. It is also a moderate Muslim state that is strategically positioned astride key sea lanes that link East Asia with the energy resources of the Middle East. Indonesia is seen by many as a valuable partner in the struggle against radical Islamist militants in Southeast Asia. Indonesia is continuing to democratize and develop its civil society and rule of law under the leadership of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY), who many view as reform-minded.
Human Rights in China: Trends and Policy Implications
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL34729/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
Human rights has been a principal area of U.S. concern in its relations with the Peoples Republic of China (PRC), particularly since the violent government crackdown on the Tiananmen democracy movement in 1989. Some policy makers contend that the U.S. policy of engagement with China, particularly since granting the PRC permanent normal trade relations status in 2000, has failed to produce meaningful political reform.
Human rights has been a principal area of U.S. concern in its relations with the Peoples Republic of China (PRC), particularly since the violent government crackdown on the Tiananmen democracy movement in 1989. Some policy makers contend that the U.S. policy of engagement with China, particularly since granting the PRC permanent normal trade relations status in 2000, has failed to produce meaningful political reform.
Building Asia Pacific Regional Architecture
URL: http://www.brookings.edu/papers/2009/07_asia_pacific_hu.aspx. Source: Brookings Institution.
The Asia Pacific region has undergone fundamental changes since the Cold War. Once perceived as institutionally underdeveloped, a wide range of regional community building initiatives has transformed Asia’s institution-building and major power relations. In this CNAPS working paper, former visiting fellow Richard Weixing Hu writes that this institutional proliferation now poses challenges to regional community building, and explores how a stable regional architecture may be constructed.
The Asia Pacific region has undergone fundamental changes since the Cold War. Once perceived as institutionally underdeveloped, a wide range of regional community building initiatives has transformed Asia’s institution-building and major power relations. In this CNAPS working paper, former visiting fellow Richard Weixing Hu writes that this institutional proliferation now poses challenges to regional community building, and explores how a stable regional architecture may be constructed.
Birdcage or Framework? Considering What Comes Next in Constitutional Reform
URL: http://www.ndi.org/node/15599. Source: National Democratic Institute and Community Development Initiative Foundation.
This report examines not only the current state of public opinion on constitutional reform and the present system. It also examines and proposes new ways to achieve the gradual and orderly progress toward a fully directly elected governance process built upon Hong Kong’s unique circumstances and history as the NPC requires. Demanding changes to the timetable by making full democracy by 2012 the only acceptable reform proposal guarantees that no progress will be made by 2012. This report assumes that all parties wish to make progress in 2012 and beyond, and that the timetable set down by Beijing is a concession by central authorities that will not be reconsidered without a significant nationwide upheaval resulting in change in the central government for which for now there is little prospect
This report examines not only the current state of public opinion on constitutional reform and the present system. It also examines and proposes new ways to achieve the gradual and orderly progress toward a fully directly elected governance process built upon Hong Kong’s unique circumstances and history as the NPC requires. Demanding changes to the timetable by making full democracy by 2012 the only acceptable reform proposal guarantees that no progress will be made by 2012. This report assumes that all parties wish to make progress in 2012 and beyond, and that the timetable set down by Beijing is a concession by central authorities that will not be reconsidered without a significant nationwide upheaval resulting in change in the central government for which for now there is little prospect
IRI Releases Bangladesh Public Opinion Poll, July 28, 2009
URL: http://www.iri.org/asia/bangladesh/pdfs/2009 July 28 Survey of Bangladesh Public Opinion June 11-19 2009.pdf. Source: International Republican Institute (IRI).
IRI today released its latest survey of Bangladesh public opinion. The results reflect a nationwide public opinion survey conducted June 11-19, 2009. The poll looked at voters opinions and attitudes on the most important issues facing the country and the performance of the government and opposition
IRI today released its latest survey of Bangladesh public opinion. The results reflect a nationwide public opinion survey conducted June 11-19, 2009. The poll looked at voters opinions and attitudes on the most important issues facing the country and the performance of the government and opposition
Afghanistan: Post-Taliban Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL30588/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
Upon and since taking office, the Obama Administration has faced a deteriorating security environment in Afghanistan, including an expanding militant presence in some areas, increasing numbers of civilian and military deaths, growing disillusionment with corruption in the government of Afghan President Hamid Karzai, and the infiltration of Taliban and other militants from safe havens in Pakistan.
Upon and since taking office, the Obama Administration has faced a deteriorating security environment in Afghanistan, including an expanding militant presence in some areas, increasing numbers of civilian and military deaths, growing disillusionment with corruption in the government of Afghan President Hamid Karzai, and the infiltration of Taliban and other militants from safe havens in Pakistan.
Afghanistan and Pakistan Reconstruction Opportunity Zones (ROZs), H.R. 1318/H.R. 1886/H.R. 2410 and S. 496: Issues and Arguments
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/R40627/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
On June 9, 2009, the House Rules Committee issued a rule providing for the consideration of H.R. 1886, the Pakistan Enduring Assistance and Cooperation Enhancement Act.
On June 9, 2009, the House Rules Committee issued a rule providing for the consideration of H.R. 1886, the Pakistan Enduring Assistance and Cooperation Enhancement Act.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Well Oiled: Oil and Human Rights in Equatorial Guinea
URL: http://www.hrw.org/en/reports/2009/07/09/well-oiled-0. Source: Human Rights Watch.
This 107-page report details how the dictatorship under President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo has used an oil boom to entrench and enrich itself further at the expense of the country's people. Since oil was discovered there in the early 1990s, Equatorial Guinea's gross domestic product (GDP) has increased more than 5,000 percent, and the country has become the fourth-largest oil producer in sub-Saharan Africa. At the same time, living standards for the country's 500,000 people have not substantially improved.
This 107-page report details how the dictatorship under President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo has used an oil boom to entrench and enrich itself further at the expense of the country's people. Since oil was discovered there in the early 1990s, Equatorial Guinea's gross domestic product (GDP) has increased more than 5,000 percent, and the country has become the fourth-largest oil producer in sub-Saharan Africa. At the same time, living standards for the country's 500,000 people have not substantially improved.
Sudan: Justice, Peace and the ICC
URL: http://www.crisisgroup.org/home/index.cfm?id=6226&l=1. Source: International Crisis Group.
This report examines the root cause of the country’s many crises, namely the reluctance of the long-ruling National Congress Party (NCP) to enact policies that would bring justice to the victims of its many conflicts. To end Sudan’s centralised, exploitive and unaccountable governance, the NCP must accept judicial reforms and transitional justice mechanisms as key elements of a Darfur settlement and at the same time fulfil its side of the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), which halted decades of civil war.
This report examines the root cause of the country’s many crises, namely the reluctance of the long-ruling National Congress Party (NCP) to enact policies that would bring justice to the victims of its many conflicts. To end Sudan’s centralised, exploitive and unaccountable governance, the NCP must accept judicial reforms and transitional justice mechanisms as key elements of a Darfur settlement and at the same time fulfil its side of the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), which halted decades of civil war.
Soldiers Who Rape, Commanders Who Condone. Sexual Violence and Military Reform in the Democratic Republic of Congo
URL: http://www.hrw.org/en/reports/2009/07/16/soldiers-who-rape-commanders-who-condone-0. Source: Human Rights Watch.
This 56-page report documents persistent sexual violence by the army, and the limited impact of government and donor efforts to address the problem. The report looks closely at the conduct of the army's 14th brigade as an example of the wider problem of sexual violence by soldiers. The brigade has been implicated in many acts of sexual violence in North and South Kivu provinces, often in the context of massive looting and other attacks on civilians. Despite ample information about the situation, military, political, and judicial authorities have failed to take decisive action to prevent rape.
This 56-page report documents persistent sexual violence by the army, and the limited impact of government and donor efforts to address the problem. The report looks closely at the conduct of the army's 14th brigade as an example of the wider problem of sexual violence by soldiers. The brigade has been implicated in many acts of sexual violence in North and South Kivu provinces, often in the context of massive looting and other attacks on civilians. Despite ample information about the situation, military, political, and judicial authorities have failed to take decisive action to prevent rape.
Oil industry has brought poverty and pollution to Niger Delta
URL: http://www.amnesty.org/en/news-and-updates/news/oil-industry-has-brought-poverty-and-pollution-to-niger-delta-20090630. Source: Amnesty International.
The oil industry in the Niger Delta of Nigeria has brought impoverishment, conflict, human rights abuses and despair to the majority of people in the oil-producing areas, says a new Amnesty International report.
The oil industry in the Niger Delta of Nigeria has brought impoverishment, conflict, human rights abuses and despair to the majority of people in the oil-producing areas, says a new Amnesty International report.
Instability in Chad
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RS22798/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
The political and security situation in Chad remains volatile. Ethnic clashes, banditry, and fighting between government forces and rebel groups, both Chadian and Sudanese, have contributed to a fragile security situation in the east. The instability has forced over 185,000 Chadians from their homes in the past three years. An additional 30,000 fled to neighboring Cameroon during a February 2008 rebel attack on the capital city
The political and security situation in Chad remains volatile. Ethnic clashes, banditry, and fighting between government forces and rebel groups, both Chadian and Sudanese, have contributed to a fragile security situation in the east. The instability has forced over 185,000 Chadians from their homes in the past three years. An additional 30,000 fled to neighboring Cameroon during a February 2008 rebel attack on the capital city
"Hostages to Peace": Threats to Human Rights and Democracy in Somaliland
URL: http://www.hrw.org/en/reports/2009/07/13/hostages-peace-0. Source: Human Rights Watch.
This 56-page report says that Somaliland's government has helped create a measure of stability and democratic governance even as Somalia has remained mired in armed conflict. But Somaliland's gains are fragile and currently under threat. The administration of President Riyale has regularly flouted Somaliland's laws and has twice delayed elections that were originally scheduled for April 2008, through processes of questionable legality. A further delay of elections, now slated for September 2009, could prove disastrous for democratic rule in Somaliland.
This 56-page report says that Somaliland's government has helped create a measure of stability and democratic governance even as Somalia has remained mired in armed conflict. But Somaliland's gains are fragile and currently under threat. The administration of President Riyale has regularly flouted Somaliland's laws and has twice delayed elections that were originally scheduled for April 2008, through processes of questionable legality. A further delay of elections, now slated for September 2009, could prove disastrous for democratic rule in Somaliland.
Congo: A Comprehensive Strategy to Disarm the FDLR
URL: http://www.crisisgroup.org/home/index.cfm?id=6209&l=1. Source: International Crisis Group.
This report examines the failed attempts of the past to dismantle the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), an insurgency with roots that go back to the 1994 genocide in Rwanda. It recommends a new approach to help end great civilian suffering and restore state authority in the eastern Congo. Clear division of labour and better coordination are needed to capitalise on recently improved Congo-Rwanda relations.
This report examines the failed attempts of the past to dismantle the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), an insurgency with roots that go back to the 1994 genocide in Rwanda. It recommends a new approach to help end great civilian suffering and restore state authority in the eastern Congo. Clear division of labour and better coordination are needed to capitalise on recently improved Congo-Rwanda relations.
Arbitrary Killings by Security Forces: Submission to the Investigative Bodies on the November 28-29, 2008 Violence in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria
URL: http://www.hrw.org/en/reports/2009/07/20/arbitrary-killings-security-forces-0. Source: Human Rights Watch.
Human Rights Watch testified before the Plateau State Judicial Commission of Inquiry on July 20, 2009 in Jos, the capital of Plateau State in central Nigeria, where on November 28-29, 2008, sectarian violence between Muslim and Christian mobs left hundreds dead. Human Rights Watch conducted on-the-ground research in Jos in the immediate aftermath of the violence and in February 2009 and found that while most of the deadly inter-communal clashes took place on November 28, the vast majority of killings by the police and military came on November 29, the day that the Plateau State governor, Jonah Jang, issued a "shoot-on-sight" directive to the security forces. Human Rights Watch documented 118 cases of alleged arbitrary killings by the security forces that took place between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. on November 29 alone.
Human Rights Watch testified before the Plateau State Judicial Commission of Inquiry on July 20, 2009 in Jos, the capital of Plateau State in central Nigeria, where on November 28-29, 2008, sectarian violence between Muslim and Christian mobs left hundreds dead. Human Rights Watch conducted on-the-ground research in Jos in the immediate aftermath of the violence and in February 2009 and found that while most of the deadly inter-communal clashes took place on November 28, the vast majority of killings by the police and military came on November 29, the day that the Plateau State governor, Jonah Jang, issued a "shoot-on-sight" directive to the security forces. Human Rights Watch documented 118 cases of alleged arbitrary killings by the security forces that took place between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. on November 29 alone.
Analysis of the Zambia NGO Bill 2009.
URL: http://www.civicus.org/media/446-CIVICUS-Analysis-Zambia-NGO-Bill-2009.pdf. Source: CIVICUS.
Civil society is now internationally recognised and respected as a sector with legitimate roles to play in society, just as the government and the private sector have their own distinct roles to play. One such role of government is to promote and protect human rights, which includes ensuring space for civil society to act without hindrance. CIVICUS recognises the constitutional commitment of the Republic of Zambia to safeguard fundamental rights and freedoms including the right to freedom of association under Article 11 (b). This right is also guaranteed to the Zambian people under Article 22 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and Article 10 of the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights ratified by Zambia. In this context CIVICUS provides the following submission to the Government of Zambia in respect to the Zambia Non-Governmental Organisations Bill, 2009 (hereinafter referred as the “Bill”) slated to be introduced in Parliament in mid July 2009.
Civil society is now internationally recognised and respected as a sector with legitimate roles to play in society, just as the government and the private sector have their own distinct roles to play. One such role of government is to promote and protect human rights, which includes ensuring space for civil society to act without hindrance. CIVICUS recognises the constitutional commitment of the Republic of Zambia to safeguard fundamental rights and freedoms including the right to freedom of association under Article 11 (b). This right is also guaranteed to the Zambian people under Article 22 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and Article 10 of the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights ratified by Zambia. In this context CIVICUS provides the following submission to the Government of Zambia in respect to the Zambia Non-Governmental Organisations Bill, 2009 (hereinafter referred as the “Bill”) slated to be introduced in Parliament in mid July 2009.
After Operation Lightning Thunder [Areas of Africa affected by Lords Resistance Army]
URL: http://www.c-r.org/our-work/uganda/documents/After_Operation_Lightning_Thunder_29April09_lores.pdf. Source: Conciliation Resources.
A report on the deteriorating security situation in border areas of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Southern Sudan affected by the Lord's Resistance Army's violence. It reviews the failed military operation by Uganda, Southern Sudan and DRC and calls for more responsible and effective measures to keep local communities safe and to end the conflict
A report on the deteriorating security situation in border areas of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Southern Sudan affected by the Lord's Resistance Army's violence. It reviews the failed military operation by Uganda, Southern Sudan and DRC and calls for more responsible and effective measures to keep local communities safe and to end the conflict
African Union Commission Strategic Plan 2009-2012
URL: http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/lib.nsf/db900SID/SNAA-7TZ93V?OpenDocument. Source: African Union.
With the adoption of the Constitutive Act and the Vision of the African Union (AU), African leaders set the path towards Africa’s integration and sustainable development. To achieve this Vision and the objectives set forth in the Act, several Organs were established and mandated to develop and implement priority strategies and programmes. Taking into account AUC’s comparative advantage, the lessons learnt from implementation and evaluation of the Strategic Plan 2004-2007, and an assessment of the operating environment including the expectations of AU stakeholders, the present Plan defines the priorities for the period 2009-2012 and spells out the human and financial resources required to manage them.
With the adoption of the Constitutive Act and the Vision of the African Union (AU), African leaders set the path towards Africa’s integration and sustainable development. To achieve this Vision and the objectives set forth in the Act, several Organs were established and mandated to develop and implement priority strategies and programmes. Taking into account AUC’s comparative advantage, the lessons learnt from implementation and evaluation of the Strategic Plan 2004-2007, and an assessment of the operating environment including the expectations of AU stakeholders, the present Plan defines the priorities for the period 2009-2012 and spells out the human and financial resources required to manage them.
World Organization Against Torture Annual Report 2009: Steadfast in Protest
URL: http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/lib.nsf/db900SID/ASAZ-7T6BT4?OpenDocument. Source: World Organization Against Torture.
Repression of demonstrations, trade union members arrested, NGOs under surveillance: for years these facts have been related to situations of economic and social imbalance and inequity. The rise in social discontent linked to the world economic crisis has increased the repression recorded in recent years. The Annual Report 2009 of the Observatory for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders shows that in inverse proportion to the fall of the stock exchanges, the inflation of freedom-killing practices and laws relating to the control of the social body was one of the significant characteristics of the problems encountered by human rights defenders in 2008.
Repression of demonstrations, trade union members arrested, NGOs under surveillance: for years these facts have been related to situations of economic and social imbalance and inequity. The rise in social discontent linked to the world economic crisis has increased the repression recorded in recent years. The Annual Report 2009 of the Observatory for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders shows that in inverse proportion to the fall of the stock exchanges, the inflation of freedom-killing practices and laws relating to the control of the social body was one of the significant characteristics of the problems encountered by human rights defenders in 2008.
Understanding Why Terrorist Operations Succeed or Fail
URL: http://www.rand.org/pubs/occasional_papers/OP257/. Source: RAND Corporation.
Understanding why terrorist attacks succeed and fail is important for homeland security and counterterrorism planning. Delving into the literature on the topic, the authors make the contention that the past success or failure of a terrorist operation — or the likelihood that a future attack will succeed — can be best understood by thinking about the match or mismatch between three key sets of characteristics: (1) terrorist group capabilities and resources, (2) the requirements of the operation it attempted or is planning to attempt, and (3) the relevance and reliability of security countermeasures.
Understanding why terrorist attacks succeed and fail is important for homeland security and counterterrorism planning. Delving into the literature on the topic, the authors make the contention that the past success or failure of a terrorist operation — or the likelihood that a future attack will succeed — can be best understood by thinking about the match or mismatch between three key sets of characteristics: (1) terrorist group capabilities and resources, (2) the requirements of the operation it attempted or is planning to attempt, and (3) the relevance and reliability of security countermeasures.
Strategies for policy makers: bringing women into governments Strategies for bringing women into government
URL: http://www.huntalternatives.org/download/1648_bringing_women_into_government_mar_09_final.pdf. Source: Hunt Alternatives Fund, 2009.
Involvement of women in peace processes brings skills, attributes, and perspectives to government processes. Post conflict governments that have involved women have tended to build governance systems which are stable and transparent. However, despite their documented contributions, women are often largely excluded from these processes. UN Security Council Resolution 1325, which mandates women’s full participation in peace building, is little known and consequently not fully implemented by policy makers.
Involvement of women in peace processes brings skills, attributes, and perspectives to government processes. Post conflict governments that have involved women have tended to build governance systems which are stable and transparent. However, despite their documented contributions, women are often largely excluded from these processes. UN Security Council Resolution 1325, which mandates women’s full participation in peace building, is little known and consequently not fully implemented by policy makers.
Rule of law, property rights, and open markets needed for developing nations to avoid “resource curse”
URL: http://www.fraserinstitute.org/newsandevents/news/6798.aspx. Source: Fraser Institute.
Countries rich in natural resources need sound economic institutions such as rule of law, property rights, open markets, and an independent judiciary in order to grow their economies and avoid the “resource curse,” concludes a new study from independent research organization the Fraser Institute. In recent years debate has flared over whether an abundance of natural resources, such as minerals and metals, oil, agricultural resources and so on, stimulates economic growth or acts as a hindrance to growth, a concept known as the “curse” of natural resources. Proponents of the idea of a “resource curse” point to nations such as oil-rich Nigeria and Venezuela and diamond-rich Sierra Leone, which experienced lower, and at times negative, rates of economic growth compared to nations that lack natural resources. As more developing nations seek to utilize natural resource revenues to expand their economy, the debate has intensified.
Countries rich in natural resources need sound economic institutions such as rule of law, property rights, open markets, and an independent judiciary in order to grow their economies and avoid the “resource curse,” concludes a new study from independent research organization the Fraser Institute. In recent years debate has flared over whether an abundance of natural resources, such as minerals and metals, oil, agricultural resources and so on, stimulates economic growth or acts as a hindrance to growth, a concept known as the “curse” of natural resources. Proponents of the idea of a “resource curse” point to nations such as oil-rich Nigeria and Venezuela and diamond-rich Sierra Leone, which experienced lower, and at times negative, rates of economic growth compared to nations that lack natural resources. As more developing nations seek to utilize natural resource revenues to expand their economy, the debate has intensified.
The Right to Offend, Shock or Disturb: A Guide to Evolution of Insult Laws in 2007 and 2008
URL: http://www.wpfc.org/sites/default/files/Right to Offend Shock or Disturb text.pdf. Source: World Press Freedom Committee (WPFC).
The survey of 58 representative countries throughout the world shows critical setbacks in WPFC's campaign to eliminate insult laws, as well as advances including the abrogation of the laws in Latin America, such as in Argentina, Chile, Mexico and Uruguay.
The survey of 58 representative countries throughout the world shows critical setbacks in WPFC's campaign to eliminate insult laws, as well as advances including the abrogation of the laws in Latin America, such as in Argentina, Chile, Mexico and Uruguay.
Political Parties and Policy Development: The Conditions which lead political parties to adopt progressive policies
URL: http://www.idea.int/resources/analysis/pp_policy_development.cfm. Source: International IDEA.
This paper analyzes the role of political parties in a democracy: how political parties fall short of their „ideal‟ functions when they adopt clientelist versus programmatic tactics to gain power; and uses data from International IDEA‟s Research and Dialogue with Political Parties project to conduct an exploratory analysis of the conditions and processes within parties that may promote the adoption or support of progressive policies, in particular pro-poor, pro-women, and conflict-sensitive policies.
This paper analyzes the role of political parties in a democracy: how political parties fall short of their „ideal‟ functions when they adopt clientelist versus programmatic tactics to gain power; and uses data from International IDEA‟s Research and Dialogue with Political Parties project to conduct an exploratory analysis of the conditions and processes within parties that may promote the adoption or support of progressive policies, in particular pro-poor, pro-women, and conflict-sensitive policies.
Pluralism. Policy for Support to Civil Society in Developing Countries within Swedish International Development Cooperation Source.
URL: http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/lib.nsf/db900SID/MYAI-7VT2T9?OpenDocument. Source: Government of Sweden.
A substantial part of Swedish development cooperation is implemented in cooperation with civil society organisations. In developing countries, Sweden will promote representative, legitimate and independent civil society actors who contribute to poverty reduction, based on their role as collective voices and organisers of services. This policy aims to establish a coherent approach to civil society in developing countries within the framework of development cooperation and procedures for the implementation of the policy.
A substantial part of Swedish development cooperation is implemented in cooperation with civil society organisations. In developing countries, Sweden will promote representative, legitimate and independent civil society actors who contribute to poverty reduction, based on their role as collective voices and organisers of services. This policy aims to establish a coherent approach to civil society in developing countries within the framework of development cooperation and procedures for the implementation of the policy.
Islamic Jurisprudence and the Regulation of Armed Conflict Source
URL: http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/lib.nsf/db900SID/AZHU-7VS7QL?OpenDocument. Source: - Harvard University.
The increase in violent attacks against civilians and non-civilians and the claims made by groups waging such attacks that their acts are legitimate under Islamic law generated wide interest in Islamic ‘laws of war’. This paper attempts to challenge the approach focused on comparison between international humanitarian law (IHL) and Islamic law on the basis of the rules adopted in each system and argues that both legal regimes are governed by certain theoretical and ideological paradigms that are distinct from each other. In order to highlight this difference, the paper examines the different juristic approaches to issues of concern to the jurists and shows how these approaches reflected particular agenda and thus can not be simply compared to rules of IHL, because these are equally governed by other agendas and interests.
The increase in violent attacks against civilians and non-civilians and the claims made by groups waging such attacks that their acts are legitimate under Islamic law generated wide interest in Islamic ‘laws of war’. This paper attempts to challenge the approach focused on comparison between international humanitarian law (IHL) and Islamic law on the basis of the rules adopted in each system and argues that both legal regimes are governed by certain theoretical and ideological paradigms that are distinct from each other. In order to highlight this difference, the paper examines the different juristic approaches to issues of concern to the jurists and shows how these approaches reflected particular agenda and thus can not be simply compared to rules of IHL, because these are equally governed by other agendas and interests.
International IDEA Annual Report 2008 - A record of actions
URL: http://www.idea.int/publications/annualreport_2008/index.cfm. Source: IFEX.
Highlights International IDEA’s objectives and main activities in 2008. International IDEA undertakes work through three activity areas:
- providing comparative knowledge and experience derived from practical experience on democracy-building processes from diverse contexts around the world;
- assisting political actors in reforming democratic institutions and processes, and engaging in political processes when invited to do so; and
- influencing democracy-building policies through the provision of the Institute’s comparative knowledge resources and assistance to political actors.
Highlights International IDEA’s objectives and main activities in 2008. International IDEA undertakes work through three activity areas:
- providing comparative knowledge and experience derived from practical experience on democracy-building processes from diverse contexts around the world;
- assisting political actors in reforming democratic institutions and processes, and engaging in political processes when invited to do so; and
- influencing democracy-building policies through the provision of the Institute’s comparative knowledge resources and assistance to political actors.
Human Rights Education in the School Systems of Europe, Central Asia and North America: A Compendium of Good Practice
URL: http://www.hrea.org/compendium. Source: The Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE/ODIHR), the Council of Europe, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Designed for primary and secondary schools, teacher training institutions and other learning settings, the new tool, which collects 101 exemplary practices from Central Asia, Europe and North America, is a valuable resource for teachers and education policymakers. It provides resource materials relevant to key elements for successful human rights education, including 1) laws, guidelines and standards; 2) learning environment; 3) teaching and learning tools; 4) professional development for educators, and 5) evaluation.
Designed for primary and secondary schools, teacher training institutions and other learning settings, the new tool, which collects 101 exemplary practices from Central Asia, Europe and North America, is a valuable resource for teachers and education policymakers. It provides resource materials relevant to key elements for successful human rights education, including 1) laws, guidelines and standards; 2) learning environment; 3) teaching and learning tools; 4) professional development for educators, and 5) evaluation.
The Geopolitical Consequences of the World Economic Recession — A Caution
URL: http://www.rand.org/pubs/occasional_papers/OP275/. Source: RAND Corporation.
Will the global economic downturn of 2009 have long-term geopolitical implications? That is, will the recession lead to lasting structural changes in the international system? Assuming that economic recovery begins in the first half of 2010, lasting geopolitical changes are unlikely. There is little empirical evidence, for example, that the United States will not remain the dominant global power for decades to come, that U.S.-China relations will be much different five years from now than they are today, or that deteriorating economic conditions will cause substantial changes in the way the governments of Russia, Japan, or India see the world. This is because economic performance is only one of many geopolitical elements that shape countries’ strategic intent and core external policies, and most of these other elements change only over the very long term.
Will the global economic downturn of 2009 have long-term geopolitical implications? That is, will the recession lead to lasting structural changes in the international system? Assuming that economic recovery begins in the first half of 2010, lasting geopolitical changes are unlikely. There is little empirical evidence, for example, that the United States will not remain the dominant global power for decades to come, that U.S.-China relations will be much different five years from now than they are today, or that deteriorating economic conditions will cause substantial changes in the way the governments of Russia, Japan, or India see the world. This is because economic performance is only one of many geopolitical elements that shape countries’ strategic intent and core external policies, and most of these other elements change only over the very long term.
Foreign Aid Reform: Studies and Recommendations
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/R40102/. Source: Library of Congress.
Both the 111th Congress and the Obama Administration have expressed interest in foreign aid reform and are looking at ways to improve and strengthen the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), coordination among implementing agencies, and monitoring effectiveness of aid activities. Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the role of foreign assistance as a tool of U.S. foreign policy has come into sharper focus
Both the 111th Congress and the Obama Administration have expressed interest in foreign aid reform and are looking at ways to improve and strengthen the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), coordination among implementing agencies, and monitoring effectiveness of aid activities. Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the role of foreign assistance as a tool of U.S. foreign policy has come into sharper focus
China and Africa’s natural resources: the challenges and implications for development and governance
URL: http://www.saiia.org.za/images/stories/pubs/occasional_papers/saia_sop_41_alden_alves_20090917.pdf. Source: South African Institute of International Affairs, University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), 2009.
China’s three decades of unbroken growth have transformed it from an economic backwater to the world’s third largest economy. This has fuelled an ever-expanding demand for energy and new markets. This paper proposes to analyse China’s growing engagement in Africa’s mineral sector and assess its impact on local governance. China’s energy concerns have been playing an increasingly crucial role in its foreign policymaking in the new century. Although other energy sources (such as coal, natural gas, nuclear energy, hydropower and alternative fuels) are inherent to this debate, oil is the top Chinese concern, since it represents China’s largest external reliance. In little over a decade, China went from leading Asian oil exporter to second largest world consumer (2003) and third largest global importer (2004).
China’s three decades of unbroken growth have transformed it from an economic backwater to the world’s third largest economy. This has fuelled an ever-expanding demand for energy and new markets. This paper proposes to analyse China’s growing engagement in Africa’s mineral sector and assess its impact on local governance. China’s energy concerns have been playing an increasingly crucial role in its foreign policymaking in the new century. Although other energy sources (such as coal, natural gas, nuclear energy, hydropower and alternative fuels) are inherent to this debate, oil is the top Chinese concern, since it represents China’s largest external reliance. In little over a decade, China went from leading Asian oil exporter to second largest world consumer (2003) and third largest global importer (2004).
Australian aid and development NGOs on human rights.
URL: http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/lib.nsf/db900sid/MINE-7US6YY/$file/ACFID_Jul2009.pdf?openelement. Source: Australian Council for International Development (ACFID).
Rights in Sight is the result of a study commissioned by a group of ACFID members into Australian aid and development views and practice by NGOs with regard to human rights. The Consultation did not aim to review the extent to which an NGO’s activities were human rights-based but to understand and explain NGO views on those activities. During the Consultation, some participants provided a number of examples and good programming tools and policies for implementing a human rights-based approach. Some of those examples, tools and policies are referred to in this document.
Rights in Sight is the result of a study commissioned by a group of ACFID members into Australian aid and development views and practice by NGOs with regard to human rights. The Consultation did not aim to review the extent to which an NGO’s activities were human rights-based but to understand and explain NGO views on those activities. During the Consultation, some participants provided a number of examples and good programming tools and policies for implementing a human rights-based approach. Some of those examples, tools and policies are referred to in this document.
Asian Companies’ Thirst for African Oil
URL: http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/news/view/-/id/696/. Source: Chatham House.
A new report on the activities of Asian oil companies in Africa exposes the flaws in many general assumptions about Asian engagement with Africa. Thirst for African Oil: Asian National Oil Companies in Nigeria and Angola analyses the impact of these companies in the two leading oil producing countries in sub-Saharan Africa, and contrasts the stability and policy consistency that are features of the Angolan system with a more insecure and unstable system in Nigeria.
A new report on the activities of Asian oil companies in Africa exposes the flaws in many general assumptions about Asian engagement with Africa. Thirst for African Oil: Asian National Oil Companies in Nigeria and Angola analyses the impact of these companies in the two leading oil producing countries in sub-Saharan Africa, and contrasts the stability and policy consistency that are features of the Angolan system with a more insecure and unstable system in Nigeria.
Yemen: Background and U.S. Relations
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL34170/. Source: Library of Congress.
With limited natural resources, a crippling illiteracy rate, and high population growth, Yemen faces an array of daunting development challenges that some observers believe make it at risk for becoming a failed state in the next few decades. Between 2007 and 2008, it ranked 153 out of 177 countries on the United Nations Development Programmes Human Development Index, a score comparable to the poorest sub-Saharan African countries.
With limited natural resources, a crippling illiteracy rate, and high population growth, Yemen faces an array of daunting development challenges that some observers believe make it at risk for becoming a failed state in the next few decades. Between 2007 and 2008, it ranked 153 out of 177 countries on the United Nations Development Programmes Human Development Index, a score comparable to the poorest sub-Saharan African countries.
Withdrawing from Iraq: Alternative Schedules, Associated Risks, and Mitigating Strategies
URL: http://www.rand.org/pallrd/0809/pubs/monographs/MG882/. Source: RAND.
In studying the withdrawal from Iraq, RAND assessed logistical constraints, trends in insurgent activity, the readiness of Iraqi security forces, and implications for the size of the residual U.S. force and for security in Iraq and the region. This book presents three alternative schedules for withdrawing from Iraq: one consistent with the Obama administration's intentions, one somewhat slower, and another faster. The authors also identify steps that the United States can take to alleviate anticipated constraints, overcome likely resistance, and reduce the potential risks associated with a drawdown.
In studying the withdrawal from Iraq, RAND assessed logistical constraints, trends in insurgent activity, the readiness of Iraqi security forces, and implications for the size of the residual U.S. force and for security in Iraq and the region. This book presents three alternative schedules for withdrawing from Iraq: one consistent with the Obama administration's intentions, one somewhat slower, and another faster. The authors also identify steps that the United States can take to alleviate anticipated constraints, overcome likely resistance, and reduce the potential risks associated with a drawdown.
U.S.-Iraq Withdrawal/Status of Forces Agreement: Issues for Congressional Oversight
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/R40011/. Source: Library of Congress.
The U.S. has been involved in military operations in Iraq since March of 2003. The legal framework under which the U.S. has operated includes H.J.Res. 114 (P.L. 107-243), multiple U.N. Security Council Resolutions, as well as orders under the Coalition Provisional Authority. The U.N. Security Council extended the mandate for the multinational forces through December 31, 2008. On November 26, 2007, U.S. President George W. Bush and Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri Kamel Al-Maliki signed a Declaration of Principles for a Long-Term Relationship of Cooperation and Friendship Between the Republic of Iraq and the United States of America.
The U.S. has been involved in military operations in Iraq since March of 2003. The legal framework under which the U.S. has operated includes H.J.Res. 114 (P.L. 107-243), multiple U.N. Security Council Resolutions, as well as orders under the Coalition Provisional Authority. The U.N. Security Council extended the mandate for the multinational forces through December 31, 2008. On November 26, 2007, U.S. President George W. Bush and Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri Kamel Al-Maliki signed a Declaration of Principles for a Long-Term Relationship of Cooperation and Friendship Between the Republic of Iraq and the United States of America.
U.S. Foreign Assistance to the Middle East: Historical Background, Recent Trends, and the FY2010 Request
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL32260/. Source: Library of Congress.
This report is an overview of U.S. foreign assistance to the Middle East from FY2005 to FY2009, and of the FY2010 budget request. It includes a brief history of aid to the region, a review of foreign aid levels, a description of selected country programs, and an analysis of current foreign aid issues. It will be updated periodically to reflect recent developments. For foreign aid terminology and acronyms, please see the glossary appended to this report. For policymakers, foreign assistance plays a key role in advancing U.S. foreign policy goals in the Middle East.
This report is an overview of U.S. foreign assistance to the Middle East from FY2005 to FY2009, and of the FY2010 budget request. It includes a brief history of aid to the region, a review of foreign aid levels, a description of selected country programs, and an analysis of current foreign aid issues. It will be updated periodically to reflect recent developments. For foreign aid terminology and acronyms, please see the glossary appended to this report. For policymakers, foreign assistance plays a key role in advancing U.S. foreign policy goals in the Middle East.
U.S. Foreign Aid to the Palestinians
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RS22967/. Source: Library of Congress.
In March 2009, the Obama Administration pledged $900 million in U.S. assistance to the Palestinians to address both post-conflict humanitarian needs in Gaza and reform, security, and development priorities in the West Bank. The enactment of the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2009 (P.L. 111-32) on June 24, 2009 appropriated over $800 million toward the amount pledged in March, putting total U.S. appropriations since January 2009 well past the amount pledged. P.L. 111-32 also included a provision that applies different conditions than those applied by previous FY2008 and FY2009 appropriations legislation to possible U.S. assistance to a Palestinian power-sharing government that includes Hamas
In March 2009, the Obama Administration pledged $900 million in U.S. assistance to the Palestinians to address both post-conflict humanitarian needs in Gaza and reform, security, and development priorities in the West Bank. The enactment of the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2009 (P.L. 111-32) on June 24, 2009 appropriated over $800 million toward the amount pledged in March, putting total U.S. appropriations since January 2009 well past the amount pledged. P.L. 111-32 also included a provision that applies different conditions than those applied by previous FY2008 and FY2009 appropriations legislation to possible U.S. assistance to a Palestinian power-sharing government that includes Hamas
Rebuilding Gaza: Putting people before politics
URL: http://www.oxfam.org/en/policy/bn-rebuilding-gaza. Source: Oxfam.
In June 2009 the blockade on the Gaza Strip enters its third year. The intense closure policy, coupled with the government of Israel's recent military operation ‘Cast Lead', has had a devastating impact on the lives and livelihoods of one and a half million Gazans, pushing them further into poverty and aid dependency.
In June 2009 the blockade on the Gaza Strip enters its third year. The intense closure policy, coupled with the government of Israel's recent military operation ‘Cast Lead', has had a devastating impact on the lives and livelihoods of one and a half million Gazans, pushing them further into poverty and aid dependency.
Political Parties and Policy Development: The Conditions which lead political parties to adopt progressive policies
URL: http://www.idea.int/resources/analysis/pp_policy_development.cfm. Source: International IDEA.
This paper analyzes the role of political parties in a democracy: how political parties fall short of their „ideal‟ functions when they adopt clientelist versus programmatic tactics to gain power; and uses data from International IDEA‟s Research and Dialogue with Political Parties project to conduct an exploratory analysis of the conditions and processes within parties that may promote the adoption or support of progressive policies, in particular pro-poor, pro-women, and conflict-sensitive policies.
This paper analyzes the role of political parties in a democracy: how political parties fall short of their „ideal‟ functions when they adopt clientelist versus programmatic tactics to gain power; and uses data from International IDEA‟s Research and Dialogue with Political Parties project to conduct an exploratory analysis of the conditions and processes within parties that may promote the adoption or support of progressive policies, in particular pro-poor, pro-women, and conflict-sensitive policies.
Lebanon: Background and U.S. Relations
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/R40054/. Source: Library of Congress.
Lebanon is a religiously diverse, democratic state transitioning toward independence after a ruinous civil war and the Syrian and Israeli occupations that followed. The United States and Lebanon have historically enjoyed a good relationship due in part to cultural and religious ties; the democratic character of the state; a large, Lebanese-American community in the United States; and the pro-western orientation of Lebanon, particularly during the Cold War.
Lebanon is a religiously diverse, democratic state transitioning toward independence after a ruinous civil war and the Syrian and Israeli occupations that followed. The United States and Lebanon have historically enjoyed a good relationship due in part to cultural and religious ties; the democratic character of the state; a large, Lebanese-American community in the United States; and the pro-western orientation of Lebanon, particularly during the Cold War.
Jordan: Background and U.S. Relations
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL33546/. Source: Library of Congress.
This report provides an overview of Jordanian politics and current issues in U.S.-Jordanian relations. It provides a brief discussion of Jordans government and economy and of its cooperation in promoting Arab-Israeli peace and other U.S. policy objectives in the Middle East. This report will be updated periodically to reflect new developments. Several issues in U.S.-Jordanian relations are likely to figure in decisions by Congress and the Administration on future aid to and cooperation with Jordan.
This report provides an overview of Jordanian politics and current issues in U.S.-Jordanian relations. It provides a brief discussion of Jordans government and economy and of its cooperation in promoting Arab-Israeli peace and other U.S. policy objectives in the Middle East. This report will be updated periodically to reflect new developments. Several issues in U.S.-Jordanian relations are likely to figure in decisions by Congress and the Administration on future aid to and cooperation with Jordan.
Iraq: Post-Saddam Governance and Security
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL31339/. Source: Library of Congress.
The Obama Administration is facing a security environment in Iraq vastly improved over that which prevailed during 2005-2007, although still not completely peaceful or without potential to deteriorate significantly. The overall frequency of violence is down to post-Saddam low levels, yet, since May 2009, insurgents have increased high profile attacks and the Obama Administration appears increasingly concerned about Iraq's ability to maintain security.
The Obama Administration is facing a security environment in Iraq vastly improved over that which prevailed during 2005-2007, although still not completely peaceful or without potential to deteriorate significantly. The overall frequency of violence is down to post-Saddam low levels, yet, since May 2009, insurgents have increased high profile attacks and the Obama Administration appears increasingly concerned about Iraq's ability to maintain security.
Iraq: Oil and Gas Legislation, Revenue Sharing, and U.S. Policy
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL34064/. Source: Library of Congress.
Development in Iraq's oil and natural gas sector is proceeding, in spite of continuing delays in agreeing to hydrocarbon sector and revenue sharing legislation to define new terms for the management of the country's significant oil and natural gas resources. Both the Bush Administration and the 110th Congress considered the passage of oil and gas sector framework and revenue sharing legislation as important benchmarks that would indicate the Iraqi governments commitment to promoting political reconciliation and providing a solid foundation for long term economic development in Iraq.
Development in Iraq's oil and natural gas sector is proceeding, in spite of continuing delays in agreeing to hydrocarbon sector and revenue sharing legislation to define new terms for the management of the country's significant oil and natural gas resources. Both the Bush Administration and the 110th Congress considered the passage of oil and gas sector framework and revenue sharing legislation as important benchmarks that would indicate the Iraqi governments commitment to promoting political reconciliation and providing a solid foundation for long term economic development in Iraq.
Iraq's New Battlefront: The Struggle over Ninewa
URL: http://www.crisisgroup.org/home/index.cfm?id=6318&l=1&m=1. Source: International Crisis Group.
This report focuses on the troubled northern governorate, where a conflict between Arabs and Kurds threatens to spiral out of control. While levels of violence have continued to drop in other parts of the country, Ninewa has seen a dramatic spike in attacks in recent months as the two groups compete for power and influence. Caught between them are vulnerable minority groups that have taken the brunt of casualties: scores have already died in large-scale, horrific attacks in the last two months.
This report focuses on the troubled northern governorate, where a conflict between Arabs and Kurds threatens to spiral out of control. While levels of violence have continued to drop in other parts of the country, Ninewa has seen a dramatic spike in attacks in recent months as the two groups compete for power and influence. Caught between them are vulnerable minority groups that have taken the brunt of casualties: scores have already died in large-scale, horrific attacks in the last two months.
Iran Sanctions
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RS20871/. Source: Library of Congress.
Iran is subject to a wide range of U.S. sanctions, restricting trade with, investment, and U.S. foreign aid to Iran, and requiring the United States to vote against international lending to Iran. Several laws and Executive Orders authorize sanctions against foreign companies that do business with Iran, as part of an effort to persuade foreign firms to choose between the Iranian market and the much larger U.S. market. A formal U.S. effort to curb international energy investment in Iran began in 1996 with the Iran Sanctions Act (ISA).
Iran is subject to a wide range of U.S. sanctions, restricting trade with, investment, and U.S. foreign aid to Iran, and requiring the United States to vote against international lending to Iran. Several laws and Executive Orders authorize sanctions against foreign companies that do business with Iran, as part of an effort to persuade foreign firms to choose between the Iranian market and the much larger U.S. market. A formal U.S. effort to curb international energy investment in Iran began in 1996 with the Iran Sanctions Act (ISA).
Insiders’ View of Political Crisis in Iran
URL: http://www.tcf.org/list.asp?type=PR&pubid=166. Source: Century Foundation.
The Century Foundation today launched insideiran.org, a special project taking readers inside the political crisis in Iran. The centerpiece of the project is a Web site, www.insideiran.org, which features articles, analysis, and the latest media reports from some of the world’s most prominent Iranian scholars, journalists, and bloggers who are either inside the country or who live temporarily outside. The project will also feature a newsletter than can be delivered by email to those who sign up.
The Century Foundation today launched insideiran.org, a special project taking readers inside the political crisis in Iran. The centerpiece of the project is a Web site, www.insideiran.org, which features articles, analysis, and the latest media reports from some of the world’s most prominent Iranian scholars, journalists, and bloggers who are either inside the country or who live temporarily outside. The project will also feature a newsletter than can be delivered by email to those who sign up.
Barriers to the Broad Dissemination of Creative Works in the Arab World
URL: http://www.rand.org/pallrd/0909/pubs/monographs/MG879/. Source: RAND.
Many analysts have examined the media that violent extremists use to communicate their core messages. Far less research, however, has been devoted to the growing body of creative works produced by Arab authors and artists that counter the intellectual and ideological underpinnings of violent extremism. Unfortunately, many of these works are not widely disseminated, marginalizing the influence of these alternative voices. This monograph examines the barriers to the broad dissemination of such works, with a focus on Arabic literature and suggests ways in which nongovernmental organizations, international allies, and the U.S. government can assist Arab writers and artists in overcoming these barriers.
Many analysts have examined the media that violent extremists use to communicate their core messages. Far less research, however, has been devoted to the growing body of creative works produced by Arab authors and artists that counter the intellectual and ideological underpinnings of violent extremism. Unfortunately, many of these works are not widely disseminated, marginalizing the influence of these alternative voices. This monograph examines the barriers to the broad dissemination of such works, with a focus on Arabic literature and suggests ways in which nongovernmental organizations, international allies, and the U.S. government can assist Arab writers and artists in overcoming these barriers.
Arab Human Development Report 2009
Title: Arab Human Development Report 2009: Challenges to Human Security in the Arab Countries by the United Nations Development Programme, Regional Bureau for Arab States (RBAS).
URL: http://www.arab-hdr.org/contents/index.aspx?rid=5. Source: UNDP.
Like its predecessors, this Report provides eminent Arab thinkers a platform from which to articulate a comprehensive analysis of their own contemporary milieu. It is not a conventional report produced by the United Nations. Rather, it is an independent publication that gives a voice to a representative group of Arab intellectuals whose sober and self-critical appraisals might not otherwise be heard in the particular circumstances of the region. The views of the authors are supplemented by an opinion poll conducted in four Arab countries—Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco and the Occupied Palestinian Territory—that represent a range of political and cultural contexts for the Report’s analyses.
URL: http://www.arab-hdr.org/contents/index.aspx?rid=5. Source: UNDP.
Like its predecessors, this Report provides eminent Arab thinkers a platform from which to articulate a comprehensive analysis of their own contemporary milieu. It is not a conventional report produced by the United Nations. Rather, it is an independent publication that gives a voice to a representative group of Arab intellectuals whose sober and self-critical appraisals might not otherwise be heard in the particular circumstances of the region. The views of the authors are supplemented by an opinion poll conducted in four Arab countries—Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco and the Occupied Palestinian Territory—that represent a range of political and cultural contexts for the Report’s analyses.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Thinking Politics: Think Tanks and Political Parties in Latin America (Spanish)
URL: http://www.idea.int/publications/thinking_politics/index.cfm. Source: International IDEA.
Investigates the characteristics of the historical relationship between think tanks and political parties in Latin America. This publication investigates the characteristics of the historical relationship between think tanks and political parties in Latin America. One conclusion expressed is that politics is not always included in the Anglo-Saxon definition of think thanks, and that this has led to support for think tanks without consideration of the effect these organizations may have on the political system in which they operate. The book offers recommendations for strengthening the relationship between research and politics, with an aim to strengthening democracy and sustainable development in Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru, the countries covered by the studies.
Investigates the characteristics of the historical relationship between think tanks and political parties in Latin America. This publication investigates the characteristics of the historical relationship between think tanks and political parties in Latin America. One conclusion expressed is that politics is not always included in the Anglo-Saxon definition of think thanks, and that this has led to support for think tanks without consideration of the effect these organizations may have on the political system in which they operate. The book offers recommendations for strengthening the relationship between research and politics, with an aim to strengthening democracy and sustainable development in Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru, the countries covered by the studies.
Peru: Current Conditions and U.S. Relations
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/R40716/. Source: Library of Congress.
Peru shows promising signs of economic and political stability and the inclination to work with the United States on mutual concerns. President Alan Garca is, however facing challenging times during this, the third year of his five-year term. Widespread social unrest has increased as growing inflation combines with unmet expectations that social conditions for Perus poorest citizens would improve with Peru’s economic growth.
Peru shows promising signs of economic and political stability and the inclination to work with the United States on mutual concerns. President Alan Garca is, however facing challenging times during this, the third year of his five-year term. Widespread social unrest has increased as growing inflation combines with unmet expectations that social conditions for Perus poorest citizens would improve with Peru’s economic growth.
The New Critical Juncture in the Andean Countries (Spanish)
URL: http://www.idea.int/publications/the_new_critical_juncture/index.cfm. Source: International IDEA.
Brings together distinguished specialists in Latin American political and social studies to analyze the problems and challenges that democracies in the Andean region currently face. This book brings together distinguished specialists in Latin American political and social studies to analyze the problems and challenges that democracies in the Andean region currently face. The works presented here seek to provide a comparison and understanding of new scenarios, which are marked by "critical current affairs" - a crossroad where one cycle in history concludes and another with still undetermined characteristics has begun.
Brings together distinguished specialists in Latin American political and social studies to analyze the problems and challenges that democracies in the Andean region currently face. This book brings together distinguished specialists in Latin American political and social studies to analyze the problems and challenges that democracies in the Andean region currently face. The works presented here seek to provide a comparison and understanding of new scenarios, which are marked by "critical current affairs" - a crossroad where one cycle in history concludes and another with still undetermined characteristics has begun.
Latin America: Terrorism Issues.
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RS21049/. Source: Library of Congress.
Since the September 2001 terrorist attacks on New York and Washington, U.S. attention to terrorism in Latin America has intensified, with an increase in bilateral and regional cooperation. In its April 2009 Country Reports on Terrorism, the State Department maintained that terrorism in the region was primarily perpetrated by terrorist organizations in Colombia and by the remnants of radical leftist Andean groups. Overall, however, the report maintained that the threat of a transnational terrorist attack remained low for most countries in the hemisphere.
Since the September 2001 terrorist attacks on New York and Washington, U.S. attention to terrorism in Latin America has intensified, with an increase in bilateral and regional cooperation. In its April 2009 Country Reports on Terrorism, the State Department maintained that terrorism in the region was primarily perpetrated by terrorist organizations in Colombia and by the remnants of radical leftist Andean groups. Overall, however, the report maintained that the threat of a transnational terrorist attack remained low for most countries in the hemisphere.
Honduran-U.S. Relations
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL34027/. Source: Library of Congress.
On June 28, 2009, the Honduran military detained President Manuel Zelaya and flew him to exile in Costa Rica, ending 27 years of uninterrupted elected civilian democratic rule. The move was backed by the Honduran Supreme Court and National Congress, which selected Roberto Micheletti, the head of Congress, to fulfill the rest of Zelayas term. Zelayas removal was brought on by the ousted presidents insistence in pushing ahead with a referendum that was ruled illegal and eventually could have led to changes to the Honduran constitution.
On June 28, 2009, the Honduran military detained President Manuel Zelaya and flew him to exile in Costa Rica, ending 27 years of uninterrupted elected civilian democratic rule. The move was backed by the Honduran Supreme Court and National Congress, which selected Roberto Micheletti, the head of Congress, to fulfill the rest of Zelayas term. Zelayas removal was brought on by the ousted presidents insistence in pushing ahead with a referendum that was ruled illegal and eventually could have led to changes to the Honduran constitution.
From Words to Action: Best Practices for Women's Participation in Latin American Political Parties
URL: http://www.idea.int/publications/from_rhetoric_to_practice/index.cfm. Source: International IDEA.
This manual provides political party members and leaders with the means to implement concrete strategies for achieving equality for women within party organizations and in access to positions of power and representation. More than a year of research and field work in 18 Latin American countries is condensed in this publication and the accompanying CD, which describe 95 "good practices" implemented by party organizations. It also analyzes the progress and the challenges still facing women in politics, both in the region and in each of the countries studied.
This manual provides political party members and leaders with the means to implement concrete strategies for achieving equality for women within party organizations and in access to positions of power and representation. More than a year of research and field work in 18 Latin American countries is condensed in this publication and the accompanying CD, which describe 95 "good practices" implemented by party organizations. It also analyzes the progress and the challenges still facing women in politics, both in the region and in each of the countries studied.
Cuba: A Blogging Revolution
URL: http://ifex.org/cuba/2009/09/15/blog_report/. Source: IFEX.
Blogging flourishes in Cuba as a new generation writes critically about social and economic issues, leaving behind a generation of leaders over 70 who do not fully understand the phenomenon, says a new report by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ).The report, "Chronicling Cuba, bloggers offer fresh hope," sees blogging in Cuba as a new space for independent ideas where citizens write about food shortages, health care, education, housing problems and lack of Internet access; issues that are not covered in the politically sanctioned press.
Blogging flourishes in Cuba as a new generation writes critically about social and economic issues, leaving behind a generation of leaders over 70 who do not fully understand the phenomenon, says a new report by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ).The report, "Chronicling Cuba, bloggers offer fresh hope," sees blogging in Cuba as a new space for independent ideas where citizens write about food shortages, health care, education, housing problems and lack of Internet access; issues that are not covered in the politically sanctioned press.
Cuba: Issues for the 111th Congress
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/R40193/. Source: Library of Congress.
Cuba remains a hard-line communist state with a poor record on human rights. The country's political succession from the long-ruling Fidel Castro to his brother Raúl was characterized by a remarkable degree of stability. Fidel stepped down from power temporarily in July 2006 because of health reasons, and Raúl assumed provisional control of the government until February 2008, when he officially became President. After Raúl Castro officially assumed the presidency, his government announced a series of economic changes that included lifting restrictions on the sale of some electronic consumer products and cell phones.
Cuba remains a hard-line communist state with a poor record on human rights. The country's political succession from the long-ruling Fidel Castro to his brother Raúl was characterized by a remarkable degree of stability. Fidel stepped down from power temporarily in July 2006 because of health reasons, and Raúl assumed provisional control of the government until February 2008, when he officially became President. After Raúl Castro officially assumed the presidency, his government announced a series of economic changes that included lifting restrictions on the sale of some electronic consumer products and cell phones.
US AID 2008 NGO Sustainability Index for Central and Eastern Europe and Eurasia
URL: http://www.usaid.gov/locations/europe_eurasia/dem_gov/ngoindex/2008/complete_document.pdf. Source: USAID.
In 2008, NGOs across Central and Eastern Europe and Eurasia continued to pursue their roles as key agents of change in their societies. They faced diverse and wide-ranging challenges, from basic struggles with registration to recruiting volunteers to fine-tuning favorable tax provisions. While gaps persist between the more developed NGO sectors of Central and Eastern Europe versus those of Eurasia, NGOs in more developed countries were not immune from organizational and funding problems, and NGOs in even the most repressive countries managed to make their voices heard. This report seeks to capture the complex and dynamic nature of these trends and tendencies.
In 2008, NGOs across Central and Eastern Europe and Eurasia continued to pursue their roles as key agents of change in their societies. They faced diverse and wide-ranging challenges, from basic struggles with registration to recruiting volunteers to fine-tuning favorable tax provisions. While gaps persist between the more developed NGO sectors of Central and Eastern Europe versus those of Eurasia, NGOs in more developed countries were not immune from organizational and funding problems, and NGOs in even the most repressive countries managed to make their voices heard. This report seeks to capture the complex and dynamic nature of these trends and tendencies.
Turkmenistan: Recent Developments and U.S. Interest
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/97-1055/. Source: Library of Congress.
This report examines the political, economic, and foreign policies undertaken by Turkmenistan™s President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow, who came to power in late 2006. The report discusses U.S. policy and assistance and provides basic facts and biographical information.
This report examines the political, economic, and foreign policies undertaken by Turkmenistan™s President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow, who came to power in late 2006. The report discusses U.S. policy and assistance and provides basic facts and biographical information.
Tajikistan: Recent Developments and U.S. Interests
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/98-594/. Source: Library of Congress.
This report outlines the severe challenges faced by Tajikistan since its five-year civil war ended in 1997, including such problems as deep poverty and poor governance. The report discusses U.S. policy and assistance. Basic facts and biographical information are provided. This report may be updated. Related products include CRS Report RL33458, Central Asia: Regional Developments and Implications for U.S. Interests, updated regularly.
This report outlines the severe challenges faced by Tajikistan since its five-year civil war ended in 1997, including such problems as deep poverty and poor governance. The report discusses U.S. policy and assistance. Basic facts and biographical information are provided. This report may be updated. Related products include CRS Report RL33458, Central Asia: Regional Developments and Implications for U.S. Interests, updated regularly.
Russia’s Implementation of European Court of Human Rights Judgments on Chechnya.
URL: http://www.hrw.org/en/reports/2009/09/28/who-will-tell-me-what-happened-my-son-0. Source: Human Rights Watch.
This 38-page report examines Russia's response to European Court judgments on cases from Chechnya. In almost all of the 115 rulings, the court concluded that Russia was responsible for extrajudicial executions, torture, and enforced disappearances, and that it had failed to investigate these crimes. In the 33 cases researched by Human Rights Watch, Russia has still not brought a single perpetrator to justice, even in cases in which those who participated in or commanded the operations that led to violations are named in the European Court judgments.
This 38-page report examines Russia's response to European Court judgments on cases from Chechnya. In almost all of the 115 rulings, the court concluded that Russia was responsible for extrajudicial executions, torture, and enforced disappearances, and that it had failed to investigate these crimes. In the 33 cases researched by Human Rights Watch, Russia has still not brought a single perpetrator to justice, even in cases in which those who participated in or commanded the operations that led to violations are named in the European Court judgments.
Situation in Chechnya, Ingushetia and Dagestan
URL: http://app.bronto.com/public/?q=ulink&fn=Link&ssid=500&id=7drrmh6zfobsick2hcuwu3cjsv1ao&id2=25ksikbj1swglt8zc0gnzttyp369v. Source: PACE.
This report cites a number of specific cases of human rights abuses throughout the region. It also examines what it calls the "wave of killings of human rights defenders," including the case of Natalya Estemirova, the Memorial human rights activist who was abducted in the Chechen capital Grozny on July 15 and found murdered in neighboring Ingushetia later that day. The report notes that some of her fellow activists, including Memorial head Oleg Orlov and Moscow Helsinki Group Chairwoman Lyudmila Alekseyeva say the circumstances of Estemirova's killing "point to the Chechen security forces' involvement" and the "direct responsibility" of Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov.
This report cites a number of specific cases of human rights abuses throughout the region. It also examines what it calls the "wave of killings of human rights defenders," including the case of Natalya Estemirova, the Memorial human rights activist who was abducted in the Chechen capital Grozny on July 15 and found murdered in neighboring Ingushetia later that day. The report notes that some of her fellow activists, including Memorial head Oleg Orlov and Moscow Helsinki Group Chairwoman Lyudmila Alekseyeva say the circumstances of Estemirova's killing "point to the Chechen security forces' involvement" and the "direct responsibility" of Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov.
Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia: Political Developments and Implications for U.S. Interests
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL33453/. Source: Library of Congress.
The United States recognized the independence of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia when the former Soviet Union broke up at the end of 1991. The United States has fostered these states' ties with the West in part to end the dependence of these states on Russia for trade, security, and other relations. The United States has pursued close ties with Armenia to encourage its democratization and because of concerns by Armenian-Americans and others over its fate.
The United States recognized the independence of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia when the former Soviet Union broke up at the end of 1991. The United States has fostered these states' ties with the West in part to end the dependence of these states on Russia for trade, security, and other relations. The United States has pursued close ties with Armenia to encourage its democratization and because of concerns by Armenian-Americans and others over its fate.
Uyghurs as indigenous people; a new UHRP report highlights Chinese government violations of Uyghurs' indigenous rights
URL: http://uyghuramerican.org/docs/UNDRIP10-2-09.pdf. Source: Uyghur American Association.
Sixty years after the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC), more than six decades have passed since the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. However, the unrest that has taken place in East Turkestan since July 5, 2009, stands as a grim reminder that Uyghurs in East Turkestan continue to experience human rights abuses in nearly every aspect of their lives. Sixty years of Communist rule have left Uyghurs a voiceless, powerless population in their traditional homeland, despite official guarantees regarding the implementation of autonomy. A new report by the Uyghur Human Rights Project (UHRP) details the PRC's violations of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) in the case of the Uyghur people.
Sixty years after the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC), more than six decades have passed since the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. However, the unrest that has taken place in East Turkestan since July 5, 2009, stands as a grim reminder that Uyghurs in East Turkestan continue to experience human rights abuses in nearly every aspect of their lives. Sixty years of Communist rule have left Uyghurs a voiceless, powerless population in their traditional homeland, despite official guarantees regarding the implementation of autonomy. A new report by the Uyghur Human Rights Project (UHRP) details the PRC's violations of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) in the case of the Uyghur people.
Survey of Pakistan Public Opinion, October 1, 2009
URL: http://www.iri.org/newsreleases/2009-10-01-IRI_Releases_Survey_of_Pakistan_Public_Opinion.asp. Source: IRI.
IRI today released its most recent survey of Pakistan public opinion. The poll was conducted July 15-August 7, 2009. IRI has conducted surveys in Pakistan since 2002. The goal of the program is to communicate the concerns of the Pakistani people to their political leaders and to use this information in IRI’s work with Pakistan’s political parties.
IRI today released its most recent survey of Pakistan public opinion. The poll was conducted July 15-August 7, 2009. IRI has conducted surveys in Pakistan since 2002. The goal of the program is to communicate the concerns of the Pakistani people to their political leaders and to use this information in IRI’s work with Pakistan’s political parties.
Survey of Afghanistan Public Opinion
URL: http://www.iri.org/newsreleases/2009-08-14-IRI%20Releases%20Survey%20of%20Afghanistan%20Public%20Opinion.asp. Source: IRI.
The International Republican Institute (IRI) today released its survey of Afghanistan public opinion. The poll was conducted July 16-26, 2009. IRI has conducted surveys in Afghanistan since 2003. The goal of the research program is to gauge Afghan public opinion and to use the information in support of Afghanistan’s elections process. The randomly selected sample consists of 2,400 adult men (50 percent) and women (50 percent), yielding an overall margin of error of ± 2.0 percent at the midrange of the 95 percent confidence level. The survey was collected using in-person, face to face interviews by trained professional interviewers. A multistage stratification proportionate to population, with random selection of households and respondents in all 34 provinces of Afghanistan was used.
The International Republican Institute (IRI) today released its survey of Afghanistan public opinion. The poll was conducted July 16-26, 2009. IRI has conducted surveys in Afghanistan since 2003. The goal of the research program is to gauge Afghan public opinion and to use the information in support of Afghanistan’s elections process. The randomly selected sample consists of 2,400 adult men (50 percent) and women (50 percent), yielding an overall margin of error of ± 2.0 percent at the midrange of the 95 percent confidence level. The survey was collected using in-person, face to face interviews by trained professional interviewers. A multistage stratification proportionate to population, with random selection of households and respondents in all 34 provinces of Afghanistan was used.
The Resistance of the Monks: Buddhism and Activism in Burma
URL: http://www.hrw.org/en/reports/2009/09/22/resistance-monks-0. Source: Human Rights Watch.
This 99-page report written by longtime Burma watcher Bertil Lintner, describes the repression Burma's monks experienced after they led demonstrations against the government in September 2007. The report tells the stories of individual monks who were arrested, beaten and detained. Two years after Buddhist monks marched down the street of the detained opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, hundreds of monks are in prison and thousands remain fearful of military repression. Many have left their monasteries and returned to their villages or sought refuge abroad, while those who remained in their monasteries live under constant surveillance.
This 99-page report written by longtime Burma watcher Bertil Lintner, describes the repression Burma's monks experienced after they led demonstrations against the government in September 2007. The report tells the stories of individual monks who were arrested, beaten and detained. Two years after Buddhist monks marched down the street of the detained opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, hundreds of monks are in prison and thousands remain fearful of military repression. Many have left their monasteries and returned to their villages or sought refuge abroad, while those who remained in their monasteries live under constant surveillance.
Radical Islamic Ideology in Southeast Asia
URL: http://www.ctc.usma.edu/publications/Southeast%20Asia%20Report.pdf. Source: Combating Terrorism Center at West Point.
In the years following the attacks of September 11, 2001, the Combating Terrorism Center (CTC) at West Point has extended significant effort to understand the ideologies, strategies, and structures that define terrorist groups, as well as the tactics and techniques they employ to inflict damage on their adversaries. As became painfully evident on 9/11, al-Qa’ida and its associated groups and networks—Sunni extremist movements—posed the most formidable terrorist threat to U.S. national security. For that reason, the CTC’s research program has historically focused on Sunni militant groups.
In the years following the attacks of September 11, 2001, the Combating Terrorism Center (CTC) at West Point has extended significant effort to understand the ideologies, strategies, and structures that define terrorist groups, as well as the tactics and techniques they employ to inflict damage on their adversaries. As became painfully evident on 9/11, al-Qa’ida and its associated groups and networks—Sunni extremist movements—posed the most formidable terrorist threat to U.S. national security. For that reason, the CTC’s research program has historically focused on Sunni militant groups.
Possible Insurgent Responses in Afghanistan
URL: http://www.aei.org/press/100027. Source: American Enterprise Institute.
As the Obama administration considers its strategic approach and future resource levels in Afghanistan, AEI Resident Scholar Frederick W. Kagan and coauthor Kimberly Kagan of the Institute for the Study of War have produced a follow-up report to their first study on Afghan force requirements. This second analysis, “Enemy Reactions to the US Strategy and Force Sizing Options,” considers how enemy groups and other stakeholders in Afghanistan and Pakistan would respond to several U.S. policy scenarios.
As the Obama administration considers its strategic approach and future resource levels in Afghanistan, AEI Resident Scholar Frederick W. Kagan and coauthor Kimberly Kagan of the Institute for the Study of War have produced a follow-up report to their first study on Afghan force requirements. This second analysis, “Enemy Reactions to the US Strategy and Force Sizing Options,” considers how enemy groups and other stakeholders in Afghanistan and Pakistan would respond to several U.S. policy scenarios.
Pakistan: Growing Concerns About Extremism, Discontent with U.S. - Pakistani Public Opinion
URL: http://pewglobal.org/reports/display.php?ReportID=265. Source: PEW.
A new survey of Pakistan by the Pew Research Center's Global Attitudes Project also finds a long-standing concern about Islamic extremism has grown even greater over the past year, and indifference and mixed opinions about both al Qaeda and the Taliban have given way to a strong condemnation of both groups. The survey report examines attitudes toward extremism and extremist groups; religion, law and society; the U.S and its foreign policy; India-Pakistan relations; Pakistani leaders and institutions; national conditions and daily life.
A new survey of Pakistan by the Pew Research Center's Global Attitudes Project also finds a long-standing concern about Islamic extremism has grown even greater over the past year, and indifference and mixed opinions about both al Qaeda and the Taliban have given way to a strong condemnation of both groups. The survey report examines attitudes toward extremism and extremist groups; religion, law and society; the U.S and its foreign policy; India-Pakistan relations; Pakistani leaders and institutions; national conditions and daily life.
Nepal’s Future: In Whose Hands?
URL: http://www.crisisgroup.org/home/index.cfm?id=6269&l=1. Source: International Crisis Group.
This report warns of the deteriorating political situation after the fall of the Maoist-led government in May 2009. The collapse of consensus and widening rifts between the major players have fuelled a more militaristic atmosphere. Meanwhile, the grounds for compromise have become narrower.
This report warns of the deteriorating political situation after the fall of the Maoist-led government in May 2009. The collapse of consensus and widening rifts between the major players have fuelled a more militaristic atmosphere. Meanwhile, the grounds for compromise have become narrower.
Human Rights in China: Trends and Policy Implications
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL34729/. Source: Library of Congress.
Human rights has been a principal area of U.S. concern in its relations with the Peoples Republic of China (PRC), particularly since the violent government crackdown on the Tiananmen democracy movement in 1989. Some policy makers contend that the U.S. policy of engagement with China, especially since granting the PRC permanent normal trade relations status in 2000, has failed to produce meaningful political reform. Others argue that U.S. engagement has helped to accelerate economic and social change and build social and legal foundations for democracy and human rights in the PRC.
Human rights has been a principal area of U.S. concern in its relations with the Peoples Republic of China (PRC), particularly since the violent government crackdown on the Tiananmen democracy movement in 1989. Some policy makers contend that the U.S. policy of engagement with China, especially since granting the PRC permanent normal trade relations status in 2000, has failed to produce meaningful political reform. Others argue that U.S. engagement has helped to accelerate economic and social change and build social and legal foundations for democracy and human rights in the PRC.
Foreign Assistance to North Korea
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/R40095/. Source: Library of Congress.
Since 1995, the United States has provided North Korea with over $1.2 billion in assistance, about 60% of which has paid for food aid and about 40% for energy assistance. As of early September 2009, the United States is not providing any aid to North Korea, except for a small medical assistance program. The Obama Administration has said that it would be willing to provide large-scale aid if North Korea takes steps to irreversibly dismantle its nuclear program. U.S. aid fell significantly in the mid-2000s, bottoming out at zero in 2006.
Since 1995, the United States has provided North Korea with over $1.2 billion in assistance, about 60% of which has paid for food aid and about 40% for energy assistance. As of early September 2009, the United States is not providing any aid to North Korea, except for a small medical assistance program. The Obama Administration has said that it would be willing to provide large-scale aid if North Korea takes steps to irreversibly dismantle its nuclear program. U.S. aid fell significantly in the mid-2000s, bottoming out at zero in 2006.
English-Nepali Glossary of Federalism Terms
URL: http://newsletter.paloma.se/clickstat/default.aspx?MGd=e4fb62da-db2f-497b-a486-4b83a51dfceb&EGd=3934c6ec-0456-4eb5-8fe1-329f06038223. Source: International IDEA.
This Glossary offers definitions for some 300 federal terms and their translation into Nepali. It will help foster a common understanding of the key terms used in federal arrangements. It will also serve as a tool to explain federal concepts to individuals and groups as they engage in the process of preparing submissions and proposals to the Constituent Assembly. Finally, the Glossary will help in the standardization of Nepali constitutional terminology and contribute to the development of plain language drafting of legal and constitutional texts in the country.
This Glossary offers definitions for some 300 federal terms and their translation into Nepali. It will help foster a common understanding of the key terms used in federal arrangements. It will also serve as a tool to explain federal concepts to individuals and groups as they engage in the process of preparing submissions and proposals to the Constituent Assembly. Finally, the Glossary will help in the standardization of Nepali constitutional terminology and contribute to the development of plain language drafting of legal and constitutional texts in the country.
China-U.S. Relations: Current Issues and Implications for U.S. Policy
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/R40457/. Source: Library of Congress.
The bilateral relationship between the U.S. and the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) is vitally important, touching on a wide range of areas including, among others, economic policy, security, foreign relations, and human rights. U.S. and PRC interests are bound together much more closely now than even a few years ago. These extensive inter-linkages have made it increasingly difficult for either government to take unilateral actions without inviting far-reaching, unintended consequences.
The bilateral relationship between the U.S. and the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) is vitally important, touching on a wide range of areas including, among others, economic policy, security, foreign relations, and human rights. U.S. and PRC interests are bound together much more closely now than even a few years ago. These extensive inter-linkages have made it increasingly difficult for either government to take unilateral actions without inviting far-reaching, unintended consequences.
China’s New Think Tanks: Where Officials, Entrepreneurs, and Scholars Interact
URL: http://www.brookings.edu/articles/2009/summer_china_li.aspx. Source: Brookings Institution.
The growing importance of think tanks in China and the frequency with which they are able to facilitate international exchanges is understandable within the context of China’s rise on the world stage. Many Chinese people are now conscious that their country is not only in the midst of profound socioeconomic transformations, but is also rapidly emerging as a major player in global affairs. They wish to understand the complex and internationally intertwined challenges that China faces in order to take intelligent positions on the issues involved.
The growing importance of think tanks in China and the frequency with which they are able to facilitate international exchanges is understandable within the context of China’s rise on the world stage. Many Chinese people are now conscious that their country is not only in the midst of profound socioeconomic transformations, but is also rapidly emerging as a major player in global affairs. They wish to understand the complex and internationally intertwined challenges that China faces in order to take intelligent positions on the issues involved.
China’s Myanmar Dilemma
URL: http://www.crisisgroup.org/home/index.cfm?id=6308&l=1. Source: International Crisis Group.
This report examines Chinese national and provincial policy towards Myanmar and its implications for international approaches toward the country. While many believe that China is the key to pushing Myanmar toward political reform, its influence is overstated. The Myanmar army’s recent raid against the Kokang ceasefire group, resulting in the flight of 37,000 refugees to China, highlights the complexity of China’s relationship with Myanmar. China was unable to dissuade the generals from launching their bloody campaign. Tensions along the border remain the highest in 20 years.
This report examines Chinese national and provincial policy towards Myanmar and its implications for international approaches toward the country. While many believe that China is the key to pushing Myanmar toward political reform, its influence is overstated. The Myanmar army’s recent raid against the Kokang ceasefire group, resulting in the flight of 37,000 refugees to China, highlights the complexity of China’s relationship with Myanmar. China was unable to dissuade the generals from launching their bloody campaign. Tensions along the border remain the highest in 20 years.
China's International Behavior: Activism, Opportunism, and Diversification.
URL: http://www.rand.org/pubs/monographs/MG850/. Source: RAND Corp.
China's global activism is continually changing and has so many dimensions that it immediately raises questions about its current and future intentions and the implications for global stability and prosperity. This study examines how China views its security environment, how it defines its international objectives, how it is pursuing these objectives, and the consequences for U.S. economic and security interests.
China's global activism is continually changing and has so many dimensions that it immediately raises questions about its current and future intentions and the implications for global stability and prosperity. This study examines how China views its security environment, how it defines its international objectives, how it is pursuing these objectives, and the consequences for U.S. economic and security interests.
The Changing Roles of Media in Taiwan's Democratization Process.
URL: http://www.brookings.edu/papers/2009/07_taiwan_huang.aspx. Source: The Brookings Institution.
The purpose of this paper is to shed light on the role of the media in Taiwan’s democratization process and to provide a proposal for the media to play a more positive role in improving the consolidation of Taiwan’s democratization.
The purpose of this paper is to shed light on the role of the media in Taiwan’s democratization process and to provide a proposal for the media to play a more positive role in improving the consolidation of Taiwan’s democratization.
Afghanistan: Post-Taliban Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL30588/. Source: Library of Congress.
Upon taking office, the Obama Administration faced a deteriorating security environment in Afghanistan, despite a build-up of U.S. forces there in preceding years, including an expanding militant presence in some areas, increasing numbers of civilian and military deaths, Afghan and international disillusionment with corruption in the government of Afghan President Hamid Karzai, and the infiltration of Taliban militants from safe havens in Pakistan.
Upon taking office, the Obama Administration faced a deteriorating security environment in Afghanistan, despite a build-up of U.S. forces there in preceding years, including an expanding militant presence in some areas, increasing numbers of civilian and military deaths, Afghan and international disillusionment with corruption in the government of Afghan President Hamid Karzai, and the infiltration of Taliban militants from safe havens in Pakistan.
USIP Takes a New Look at the Democratic Republic of Congo's War
URL: http://cl.exct.net/?qs=4e32edf9fde2be1665c98e198f8c7794c8da740cf390d74d9920a391176c6810. Source: USIP.
The conflict in the DRC has claimed the lives of millions and appears to have no end. USIP provides context to the violence and offers fresh ideas on how the region's political economy can help resolve the conflict. The USIP report, Beyond Emergency Responses in the Democratic Republic of Congo: Regional Solutions for a Regional Conflict, provides context to this protracted war, assesses current approaches and presents new options to resolve it
The conflict in the DRC has claimed the lives of millions and appears to have no end. USIP provides context to the violence and offers fresh ideas on how the region's political economy can help resolve the conflict. The USIP report, Beyond Emergency Responses in the Democratic Republic of Congo: Regional Solutions for a Regional Conflict, provides context to this protracted war, assesses current approaches and presents new options to resolve it
Traditional Justice and Reconciliation after Violent Conflict: Learning from African Experiences (French)
URL: http://www.idea.int/publications/traditional_justice/fr.cfm. Source: International.
This book presents the findings of a major comparative study of the role played by traditional justice mechanisms in dealing with the legacy of violent conflict in Africa. The five case studies – Burundi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Sierra Leone and Uganda – provide options for future policy development in the related areas of post-conflict reconstruction, democracy building and development.
This book presents the findings of a major comparative study of the role played by traditional justice mechanisms in dealing with the legacy of violent conflict in Africa. The five case studies – Burundi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Sierra Leone and Uganda – provide options for future policy development in the related areas of post-conflict reconstruction, democracy building and development.
Somalia: The Trouble with Puntland
URL: http://www.crisisgroup.org/home/index.cfm?id=6264&l=1. Source: International Crisis Group.
This report warns about the rise in insecurity and political tension that the semi-autonomous north-eastern region has been experiencing for three years. At its roots are poor governance and a collapse of the cohesion, particularly within the Harti clan, that led to its creation a decade ago.
This report warns about the rise in insecurity and political tension that the semi-autonomous north-eastern region has been experiencing for three years. At its roots are poor governance and a collapse of the cohesion, particularly within the Harti clan, that led to its creation a decade ago.
The Role of the Media in the Upcoming Somaliland Elections: Lessons from Kenya
URL: http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/lib.nsf/db900SID/JBRN-7W6HEA?OpenDocument. Source: University of Oxford.
This report explores issues of media policy during post‑election violence. We examine the case of Kenya, where 1,133 people were killed after the 2007 elections, to distill lessons for Somaliland’s upcoming elections. There are indications the elections in Somaliland will be highly contentious and that the media will have an important role in either exacerbating or alleviating political violence. Indeed this has already been the case
This report explores issues of media policy during post‑election violence. We examine the case of Kenya, where 1,133 people were killed after the 2007 elections, to distill lessons for Somaliland’s upcoming elections. There are indications the elections in Somaliland will be highly contentious and that the media will have an important role in either exacerbating or alleviating political violence. Indeed this has already been the case
Political violence report: Zimbabwe
URL: http://www.hrforumzim.com/monthly/JuneMPVR2009.pdf. Source: Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum.
The Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum issued the latest Monthly Political Violence Report for the month of June 2009. The report notes that the month of June saw the levels of organised violence being sustained with little indication the Government of National Unity (GNU) was committed to ending human rights violations in the country. It notes that disregard for the rule of law, corruption, intimidation, abuse of political office and the militarisation of both public and private institutions continue to dog Zimbabwe and stifle any meaningful economic recovery.
The Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum issued the latest Monthly Political Violence Report for the month of June 2009. The report notes that the month of June saw the levels of organised violence being sustained with little indication the Government of National Unity (GNU) was committed to ending human rights violations in the country. It notes that disregard for the rule of law, corruption, intimidation, abuse of political office and the militarisation of both public and private institutions continue to dog Zimbabwe and stifle any meaningful economic recovery.
The Ibrahim Index of African Governance
URL: http://www.moibrahimfoundation.org/en/section/the-ibrahim-index. Source: Mo Ibrahim Foundation.
This resource is a comprehensive ranking of African countries according to governance quality. The Ibrahim Index measures the delivery of public goods and services to citizens by government and non-state actors. The Ibrahim Index uses indicators across four main pillars: Safety and Rule of Law; Participation and Human Rights; Sustainable Economic Opportunity; and Human Development as proxies for the quality of the processes and outcomes of governance.
This resource is a comprehensive ranking of African countries according to governance quality. The Ibrahim Index measures the delivery of public goods and services to citizens by government and non-state actors. The Ibrahim Index uses indicators across four main pillars: Safety and Rule of Law; Participation and Human Rights; Sustainable Economic Opportunity; and Human Development as proxies for the quality of the processes and outcomes of governance.
Guinea's 2008 Military Coup and Relations with the United States
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/R40703/. Source: Library of Congress.
Guinea is a Francophone West African country on the Atlantic coast, with a population of about 10 million. It is rich in natural resources but characterized by widespread poverty and limited socio-economic growth and development. While Guinea has experienced regular episodes of internal political turmoil, it was considered a locus of relative stability over the past two decades, a period during which each of its six neighbors suffered one or more armed internal conflicts. Guinea entered a new period of political uncertainty on December 23, 2008, when a group of junior and mid-level military officers seized power, hours after the death of longtime president and former military leader Lansana Cont.
Guinea is a Francophone West African country on the Atlantic coast, with a population of about 10 million. It is rich in natural resources but characterized by widespread poverty and limited socio-economic growth and development. While Guinea has experienced regular episodes of internal political turmoil, it was considered a locus of relative stability over the past two decades, a period during which each of its six neighbors suffered one or more armed internal conflicts. Guinea entered a new period of political uncertainty on December 23, 2008, when a group of junior and mid-level military officers seized power, hours after the death of longtime president and former military leader Lansana Cont.
Ghana: Background and U.S. Relations
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RS22809/. Source: Library of Congress.
This report provides information on current developments in Ghana and Ghanas relations with the United States, which are close. It describes the purpose of President Barack Obama's forthcoming trip to Ghana, which will focus on issues of good governance and socio-economic and political development, and characterizes the current state of play in bilateral relations.
This report provides information on current developments in Ghana and Ghanas relations with the United States, which are close. It describes the purpose of President Barack Obama's forthcoming trip to Ghana, which will focus on issues of good governance and socio-economic and political development, and characterizes the current state of play in bilateral relations.
False Dawn: The Zimbabwe Power-Sharing Government’s Failure to Deliver Human Rights Improvements
URL: http://www.hrw.org/en/reports/2009/08/31/false-dawn-0. Source: Human Rights Watch.
This 20-page report highlights the transitional government's lack of progress in rights reforms in the six months since it was created. The former ruling party, Zimbabwe Africa National Union - Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF), has demonstrated a lack of political will to effect change and wields more power than the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), the former opposition party and now a partner in government. Police, state prosecutors, and court officials aligned to ZANU-PF conduct politically motivated prosecutions of MDC legislators and activists, and fail to ensure justice for victims of abuses or to hold perpetrators of human rights violations to account.
This 20-page report highlights the transitional government's lack of progress in rights reforms in the six months since it was created. The former ruling party, Zimbabwe Africa National Union - Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF), has demonstrated a lack of political will to effect change and wields more power than the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), the former opposition party and now a partner in government. Police, state prosecutors, and court officials aligned to ZANU-PF conduct politically motivated prosecutions of MDC legislators and activists, and fail to ensure justice for victims of abuses or to hold perpetrators of human rights violations to account.
Ethiopia: Ethnic Federalism and Its Discontents
URL: http://www.crisisgroup.org/home/index.cfm?id=6300&l=1. Source: International Crisis Group.
This report examines the potential for a violent eruption of conflict in Ethiopia ahead of the June 2010 elections amidst rising ethnic tensions and dissent. The international community must stop ignoring and downplaying these problems, and instead encourage more meaningful democratic governance in the country.
This report examines the potential for a violent eruption of conflict in Ethiopia ahead of the June 2010 elections amidst rising ethnic tensions and dissent. The international community must stop ignoring and downplaying these problems, and instead encourage more meaningful democratic governance in the country.
The Effects of Electoral Institutions in Rwanda: Why Proportional Representation Supports the Authoritarian Regime
URL: http://www.giga-hamburg.de/dl/download.php?d=/content/publikationen/pdf/wp105_stroh.pdf. Source: GIGA Research Programme: Legitimacy and Efficiency of Political Systems.
While much has been written about the special design of Rwanda’s judiciary in order to handle the aftermath of the genocide in 1994, other institutional actions resulting from the 2003 constitution have rarely been addressed in research. However, the second (partial) parliamentary elections in September 2008 revealed some of the implications which the carefully designed electoral system has for Rwanda’s political development.
While much has been written about the special design of Rwanda’s judiciary in order to handle the aftermath of the genocide in 1994, other institutional actions resulting from the 2003 constitution have rarely been addressed in research. However, the second (partial) parliamentary elections in September 2008 revealed some of the implications which the carefully designed electoral system has for Rwanda’s political development.
Current Conditions and the Crisis in North Uganda
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL33701/. Source: Library of Congress.
In February 2006, Ugandans voted in the first multi-party elections in almost 26 years. President Yoweri Museveni and his ruling National Revolutionary Movement (NRM) parliamentary candidates won a decisive victory over opposition candidate Kizza Besigye and the Forum for Democracy Coalition. Nevertheless, poll results showed a notable decline in support for President Museveni from previous elections.
In February 2006, Ugandans voted in the first multi-party elections in almost 26 years. President Yoweri Museveni and his ruling National Revolutionary Movement (NRM) parliamentary candidates won a decisive victory over opposition candidate Kizza Besigye and the Forum for Democracy Coalition. Nevertheless, poll results showed a notable decline in support for President Museveni from previous elections.
Chad: Escaping from the Oil Trap
URL: http://www.crisisgroup.org/home/index.cfm?id=6288&l=1. Source: International Crisis Group.
This report examines the exploitation of oil revenues. Since 2003 they have contributed greatly to the deterioration of governance in Chad and to a succession of rebellions and political crises. The regime uses the revenues as a means to reward its cronies, co-opt members of the political class, and acquire the military means enabling it to reject genuine political negotiations. This has further limited space for the political opposition and civil society and helped keep the country in a state of political paralysis, stoking the antagonism between regime and opponents.
This report examines the exploitation of oil revenues. Since 2003 they have contributed greatly to the deterioration of governance in Chad and to a succession of rebellions and political crises. The regime uses the revenues as a means to reward its cronies, co-opt members of the political class, and acquire the military means enabling it to reject genuine political negotiations. This has further limited space for the political opposition and civil society and helped keep the country in a state of political paralysis, stoking the antagonism between regime and opponents.
Burundi: To Integrate the FNL Successfully
URL: http://www.crisisgroup.org/home/index.cfm?id=6249&l=1. Source: International Crisis Group.
This report examines the peace process and what could still threaten it. There have been encouraging developments. Since last December, the former rebels of the National Forces of Liberation (FNL) have met legal requirements by dropping the ethnic reference “Hutu” from their name. They have integrated some of their combatants into the security forces, demobilised others and registered as a political party.
This report examines the peace process and what could still threaten it. There have been encouraging developments. Since last December, the former rebels of the National Forces of Liberation (FNL) have met legal requirements by dropping the ethnic reference “Hutu” from their name. They have integrated some of their combatants into the security forces, demobilised others and registered as a political party.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Tyrants on Trial: Keeping Order in the Courtroom
URL: http://www.soros.org/initiatives/justice/focus/international_justice/articles_publications/publications/tyrants_20090911. Source: Soros Foundation.
This report examines the difficulties of ensuring a fair trial when former leaders defend themselves, often by attacking the court while simultaneously treating it as a platform for lengthy espousals of their broad political and ideological views. The author, Patricia M. Wald, was chief judge for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia and also served as a judge for the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia.
This report examines the difficulties of ensuring a fair trial when former leaders defend themselves, often by attacking the court while simultaneously treating it as a platform for lengthy espousals of their broad political and ideological views. The author, Patricia M. Wald, was chief judge for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia and also served as a judge for the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia.
Problem-Driven Governance and Political Economy Analysis
URL: http://go.worldbank.org/SGO4LFRSS0. Source: The World Bank.
This is a reference document pulling together key ideas and lessons learned from existing applications of governance and political economy analysis from around the Bank and beyond.
This is a reference document pulling together key ideas and lessons learned from existing applications of governance and political economy analysis from around the Bank and beyond.
Foundations’ Year-end Outlook for Giving and the Sector
URL: http://www.foundationcenter.org/gainknowledge/research/pdf/researchadvisory_economy_200911.pdf. Source: Foundation Center.
Foundation giving will likely decline by more than 10 percent in 2009, closer to the higher end of the 8 to 13 percent range estimated by the Foundation Center earlier this year. According to September 2009 survey findings released today in Foundations’ Year-end Outlook for Giving and the Sector, foundation giving will also decline further in 2010, as previously predicted by the Center.
Foundation giving will likely decline by more than 10 percent in 2009, closer to the higher end of the 8 to 13 percent range estimated by the Foundation Center earlier this year. According to September 2009 survey findings released today in Foundations’ Year-end Outlook for Giving and the Sector, foundation giving will also decline further in 2010, as previously predicted by the Center.
Experts Recommend Key Steps Toward Preventing State Fragility
URL: http://www.stanleyfoundation.org/articles.cfm?ID=603. Source: Stanley Foundation.
This report, which presents a preventive approach to the challenge of fragile states was the focus of the 50th annual Strategy for Peace Conference recently organized by the Stanley Foundation.
This report, which presents a preventive approach to the challenge of fragile states was the focus of the 50th annual Strategy for Peace Conference recently organized by the Stanley Foundation.
Digital Media in Conflict-Prone Societies
URL: http://cima.ned.org/reports/digital-media-in-conflict-prone-societies-2.html. Source: Center for International Media Assistance (CIMA).
This report examines the potential for digital media to foster peace or to foment violence in conflict-prone societies. Today media affect war more than ever before. Digital media technologies—particularly participatory, networked tools—have increased communication and information dissemination in conflict settings, affecting all sides and allowing any citizen to be a producer as well as a consumer of news. These new tools, Sigal says in his report, can be used to build communication systems that encourage dialogue and nonviolent political solutions.
This report examines the potential for digital media to foster peace or to foment violence in conflict-prone societies. Today media affect war more than ever before. Digital media technologies—particularly participatory, networked tools—have increased communication and information dissemination in conflict settings, affecting all sides and allowing any citizen to be a producer as well as a consumer of news. These new tools, Sigal says in his report, can be used to build communication systems that encourage dialogue and nonviolent political solutions.
Democracy in Development - Global consultations on the EU's role in democracy building
URL: http://www.idea.int/publications/democracy_in_development/. Source: International IDEA.
The report is the result of global/regional consultations with the EU's partner organizations in Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean and the Arab world, led by International IDEA and sponsored by Sweden, aimed at producing a deeper understanding of how the EU can best assist democracy building efforts worldwide.
The report is the result of global/regional consultations with the EU's partner organizations in Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean and the Arab world, led by International IDEA and sponsored by Sweden, aimed at producing a deeper understanding of how the EU can best assist democracy building efforts worldwide.
Anti-Corruption Plain Language Guide
URL: http://www.transparency.org/content/download/45306/725785/file/TI_Plain_Language_Guide_280709.pdf. Source: Transparency International.
The guide provides standardized, easy-to-understand definitions for 45 key terms commonly used by the anti-corruption movement – from ‘access to information’ to ‘whistle blowing’. Each term includes a practical example of how TI approaches these issues and helpful links for further research.
The guide provides standardized, easy-to-understand definitions for 45 key terms commonly used by the anti-corruption movement – from ‘access to information’ to ‘whistle blowing’. Each term includes a practical example of how TI approaches these issues and helpful links for further research.
2009 Report on International Religious Freedom
URL: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/irf/2009/index.htm. Source: U.S. Department of State.
The International Religious Freedom report is submitted to Congress annually by the Department of State in compliance with Section 102(b) of the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA) of 1998. This report supplements the most recent Human Rights Reports by providing additional detailed information with respect to matters involving international religious freedom. It includes individual country chapters on the status of religious freedom worldwide.
The International Religious Freedom report is submitted to Congress annually by the Department of State in compliance with Section 102(b) of the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA) of 1998. This report supplements the most recent Human Rights Reports by providing additional detailed information with respect to matters involving international religious freedom. It includes individual country chapters on the status of religious freedom worldwide.
Quds Day in Iran: Velvet Revolution Trumps Nuclear Negotiations
URL: http://www.washingtoninstitute.org/templateC05.php?CID=3118. Source: The Washington Institute for Near East Policy.
While the United States is concentrating on the G-20 summit and the October 1 meeting with the secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, Iranian attention has been focused on the potentially destabilizing protests planned for September 18, Quds Day. This critical difference of agenda -- with Iran focused more on its domestic turmoil than on simmering international issues -- will be a major complicating factor in negotiations between the international community and Iran in the coming weeks.
While the United States is concentrating on the G-20 summit and the October 1 meeting with the secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, Iranian attention has been focused on the potentially destabilizing protests planned for September 18, Quds Day. This critical difference of agenda -- with Iran focused more on its domestic turmoil than on simmering international issues -- will be a major complicating factor in negotiations between the international community and Iran in the coming weeks.
Muslim Brotherhood in Jordan: Hamas in Ascendance
URL: http://www.washingtoninstitute.org/templateC05.php?CID=3123. Source: The Washington Institute for Near East Policy.
In early September, three senior leaders of Jordan's Muslim Brotherhood (MB) resigned from the organization's executive bureau after it voted to dissolve the MB political department -- one of the few remaining components of the organization controlled by moderates. The resignations were a protest against not only the executive bureau's decision, but also the MB's increasingly close affiliation with Hamas. Today, the Jordanian MB is facing an unprecedented internal crisis, pitting the traditional moderate East Bank leadership -- Jordanians who are not originally Palestinian -- against the powerful pro-Hamas Palestinian-led element.
In early September, three senior leaders of Jordan's Muslim Brotherhood (MB) resigned from the organization's executive bureau after it voted to dissolve the MB political department -- one of the few remaining components of the organization controlled by moderates. The resignations were a protest against not only the executive bureau's decision, but also the MB's increasingly close affiliation with Hamas. Today, the Jordanian MB is facing an unprecedented internal crisis, pitting the traditional moderate East Bank leadership -- Jordanians who are not originally Palestinian -- against the powerful pro-Hamas Palestinian-led element.
In Middle East, bloggers face attack
URL: http://cpj.org/reports/2009/10/middle-east-bloggers-the-street-leads-online.php. Source: Committee to Protect Journalists.
Blogging is the crucial front in the struggle for freedom of expression in the region, CPJ says. From Iran to Tunisia, authorities rewrite laws and deploy technology to block online reporting.
Blogging is the crucial front in the struggle for freedom of expression in the region, CPJ says. From Iran to Tunisia, authorities rewrite laws and deploy technology to block online reporting.
Media for Next Generation Peacebuilding in Iraq
URL: http://www.usip.org/resources/media-next-generation-peacebuilding-in-iraq. Source: Source: United States Institute for Peace (USIP).
In order to address some of the challenges facing youth in Iraq, USIP and its Iraqi partners created a multimedia program that provides Iraqi teenagers with tools that can help them grow into independent, empowered citizens within a complex society. In April 2009, USIP's Center of Innovation for Media, Conflict and Peacebuilding organized an expert working group in Erbil, Iraq to discuss various peace media programming relevant for Iraqi youths. This report offers an introduction to USIP's youth media project, a summary of an expert working group and the next steps in developing the program designed to help Iraqi teenagers in becoming active contributors to peace in Iraq.
In order to address some of the challenges facing youth in Iraq, USIP and its Iraqi partners created a multimedia program that provides Iraqi teenagers with tools that can help them grow into independent, empowered citizens within a complex society. In April 2009, USIP's Center of Innovation for Media, Conflict and Peacebuilding organized an expert working group in Erbil, Iraq to discuss various peace media programming relevant for Iraqi youths. This report offers an introduction to USIP's youth media project, a summary of an expert working group and the next steps in developing the program designed to help Iraqi teenagers in becoming active contributors to peace in Iraq.
Human Rights Education in the School Systems of Europe, Central Asia and North America: A Compendium of Good Practice.
URL: http://www.hrea.org/index.php?base_id=172&doc_id=458. Source HREA.
Designed for primary and secondary schools, teacher training institutions and other learning settings, the new tool, which collects 101 exemplary practices from Central Asia, Europe and North America, is a valuable resource for teachers and education policymakers. It provides resource materials relevant to key elements for successful human rights education, including 1) laws, guidelines and standards; 2) learning environment; 3) teaching and learning tools; 4) professional development for educators, and 5) evaluation.
Designed for primary and secondary schools, teacher training institutions and other learning settings, the new tool, which collects 101 exemplary practices from Central Asia, Europe and North America, is a valuable resource for teachers and education policymakers. It provides resource materials relevant to key elements for successful human rights education, including 1) laws, guidelines and standards; 2) learning environment; 3) teaching and learning tools; 4) professional development for educators, and 5) evaluation.
Arab Knowledge Report 2009: Towards Productive Intercommunication for Knowledge
URL: http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/lib.nsf/db900SID/SNAA-7XA6ZA?OpenDocument. Source: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
This report emphasises two central and mutually dependent premises. The first is the connection between knowledge, development and freedom. The second is the close relationship between the demands of development and the building of the knowledge society.
This report emphasises two central and mutually dependent premises. The first is the connection between knowledge, development and freedom. The second is the close relationship between the demands of development and the building of the knowledge society.
Afghanistan's Security Environment
URL: http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d10178r.pdf. Source: GAO.
This report provides updated information to an earlier GAO report on (1) the security situation as gauged by trends in enemy-initiated attacks, (2) challenges for U.S. reconstruction efforts posed by security conditions, and (3) the recent increase in U.S. and coalition troop presence.
This report provides updated information to an earlier GAO report on (1) the security situation as gauged by trends in enemy-initiated attacks, (2) challenges for U.S. reconstruction efforts posed by security conditions, and (3) the recent increase in U.S. and coalition troop presence.
Trafficking in Persons in Latin America and the Caribbean
URL: http://opencrs.com/document/RL33200/. Source: Congressional Research Service.
Trafficking in persons (TIP) for the purpose of exploitation is a lucrative criminal activity that is of major concern to the United States and the international community. According to the most recent U.S. State Department estimates, roughly 800,000 people are trafficked across borders each year. If trafficking within countries is included in the total world figures, official U.S. estimates are that some 2 to 4 million people are trafficked annually.
Trafficking in persons (TIP) for the purpose of exploitation is a lucrative criminal activity that is of major concern to the United States and the international community. According to the most recent U.S. State Department estimates, roughly 800,000 people are trafficked across borders each year. If trafficking within countries is included in the total world figures, official U.S. estimates are that some 2 to 4 million people are trafficked annually.