Middle East

Sisi for Egypt—in 2022?

By David Johnson

Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi, according to most interpretations, faces a stark decision—run for President of Egypt and confirm both the fears and hopes of different parts of Egyptian society, or stand back, all shades-of-Cincinnatus, and allow someone else to take the helm. Amid calls from prominent Egyptian figures supporting a possible run (not to mention an initiative […]

Pluralism Key to Real Change in Arab World

By Barbara Slavin

Three years after the start of political upheaval across the region, transitional governments are struggling to maintain popular support amid rising sectarianism, poverty and violent extremism. Of six Arab countries that have experienced revolts since late 2010, only tiny Tunisia and Yemen appear to be making fitful progress toward political pluralism. Libya is plagued by tribal and religious […]

More Complexities in Implementing the Nuclear Deal With Iran

By Jofi Joseph

Jofi Joseph worked on US policy toward Iran’s nuclear program at the White House. This is the second of his two reports on complications in implementing the November 24 agreement with Iran to limit its nuclear program. Read his previous report here. As Iran and six major powers prepare to implement their November 24 deal to limit Iran’s nuclear […]

The Quest for Minority Rights in Egypt

By Jayson Casper

Coptic Christians have reason to celebrate… alone. While they and many others rejoice at the removal of the overall Islamist tinge of the 2012 constitution, this largely liberal-produced draft leaves other religious minorities out in the cold. 

Whatever Happened to the Forum for the Future?

By Michele Dunne and Amy Hawthorne

“Governments and Civil Society Hand in Hand for a Better Future” was the title of this year’s G8 Broader Middle East and North Africa (BMENA) Initiative “Forum for the Future,” held in Cairo December 16 to 17. The next day, while senior international diplomats attending the forum were still in town, Egyptian police raided the Egyptian Center […]

Chinese Military Ship Will Help Guard Destruction of Syria’s Chemical Weapons

By New York Times, Reuters, & South China Morning Post

From Jane Perlez, New York Times:  The same day that Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel of the United States blasted the actions of a Chinese ship in the South China Sea as “irresponsible,” China announced that it would deploy a military ship to work with an American vessel involved in the destruction of Syria’s chemical weapons.

This Week in South Asia: December 14-20

Commentary from the South Asia Center on the most relevant news from the region, and suggested “must-read” analyses from the week.