- Those who think that the events in the wake of Iran's 2009 presidential election will lead to radical change will be disappointed. The movement that led to the overthrow of the Shah in 1979 was powerful and had a clear focus; today's protests are heterogenous and lack leadership. more»
The 2009 Iraqi Provincial Elections – - The two most significant result of the 2009 provincial elections in Iraq are: Iraqis are not prepared to grant carte blanche to politicians whose main pitch is ethno-sectarian. And: The elections were held with minimum support from US forces and proved that Iraqis are able to organise nation-wide elections by themselves. more»
Zimbabwe Between Military Regime and Civilian State – - The Zimbabwean struggle for democracy looks set to continue for some time to come. The MDC-T needs to ensure that future rounds of mediation will take place within a more equitable, framework. more»
EU Policy After the Irish No Vote – - Th EU needs to seriously address its democratic deficit and the disillusionment that many Europeans feel for the Union. Dealing with these issues will surely not be an easy task but it will, without a doubt, enrich European democracy and the very ideals that we stand for and wish to promote in the world. more»
Somalia - Current Conflicts and New Chances for State Building – - Backgrounds on the history and reality of prolonged state collapse in Somalia. Why have the many attempts to rebuild the state come to nought? more»
Democracy in the Arab World – - George Giacaman from Birzeit University in Palestine explains how partial democratisation in the Middle East serves to stabilise the rule of oligarchies - and at the same time is in the interest of Western powers who are afraid that complete democratisation will undermine their influence in the region. more»
