Special Reports

2008

Using Quantitative and Qualitative Models to Forecast Instability
March 2008 | Jack A. Goldstone
To what extent can structural models detect—and forestall—conflict? How can decision-makers effectively use such paradigms?

Sudanese Universities as Sites of Social Transformation
February 2008 | Linda S. Bishai
In Sudanese universities, students and faculty have historically served as vital voices for political change and community and international engagement, but recent educational policies have severely limited their voices.

Toward Peace in the Southern Philippines: A Summary and Assessment of the USIP Philippine Facilitation Project, 2003-2007
February 2008 | G. Eugene Martin and Astrid S. Tuminez
The Moro Islamic Liberation front has been engaged in a rebellion against the Philippines for more than three decades. In 2003, the U.S. Department of State asked USIP to undertake a project to expedite a peace agreement between the two sides.

Religion in World Affairs: Its Role in Conflict and Peace
February 2008 | David Smock
In recent decades, religion has assumed unusual prominence in global affairs. The horrendous events of 9/11, the conflagration in Iraq, and the aggressive assertiveness of quasi-theocratic Iran only confirm in the popular mind that religion lies behind much of contemporary international conflict.

Elections in the DRC: The Bemba Surprise
February 2008 | Tatiana Carayannis
The surprising results of the 2006 elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo reveal the fractious nature of national politics as the country struggles to maintain peace.

Negotiating with the Islamic Republic of Iran
January 2008 | John W. Limbert
This Special Report, framed as a brief "how to" guide for American negotiators dealing with counterparts from the Islamic Republic of Iran, contains insights into Iranian negotiating patterns and appropriate responses. The report is the result of interviews with academics and practitioners, as well as historical research.

Media and Conflict: Afghanistan as a Relative Success Story
January 2008 | Yll Bajraktari and Christina Parajon
The development of media in post-Taliban Afghanistan has been relatively successful. However, such development remains incomplete and still faces many challenges. Hence, the international community must continue to assist and support these efforts.

Conflict-Sensitive Approach to Infrastructure Development
January 2008 | Merriam Mashatt, Major General Daniel Long, and James Crum
What is the nexus between conflict analysis and building infrastructure? What roles can new and upgraded buildings, highways, and the like play in winning the "battle for hearts and minds?" How can the U.S. government streamline processes aimed to facilitate infrastructure development in conflict zones?

Higher Education and the Future of Iraq
January 2008 | Imad Harb
Iraqis have traditionally valued intellectual achievement, but the legacy of Baathist rule and the current tide of instability have crippled universities. The future, however, could see institutions play a leading role in securing long-term peace.