Publications
Articles, publications, books, tools and multimedia features from the U.S. Institute of Peace provide the latest news, analysis, research findings, practitioner guides and reports, all related to the conflict zones and issues that are at the center of the Institute’s work to prevent and reduce violent conflict.
Developing and Managing Congo’s Natural Resources
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is among the most mineral-rich countries in Africa. During the war, those natural resources fueled the conflict, and provided illegal sources of wealth for some. Now, as the DRC undertakes the rebuilding of its economy, the management of natural resources serves as a key component in its development strategy.
Rebuilding Civil Society in Afghanistan: Fragile Progress and Formidable Obstacles
Nearly six years after the U.S.-led invasion of Afghanistan, efforts to develop civil society are showing tentative signs of progress. The effectiveness of civil society in influencing development in the provinces remains low, and rising insecurity in many regions threatens the future prospects of the nascent Afghan civil society.
Healing and Reintegrating the Victims of Congo’s War
Child soldiers and women are among the most vulnerable victims of Congo’s war. Attending to their needs for reintegration, counseling, and medical attention are critical components for consolidating peace.
Building Democracy in Burma
This report was commissioned by USIP's Center for Conflict Analysis and Prevention. It draws on the deliberations of prominent U.S. and international academics and NGO/IGO representatives on how the international community can prepare itself to support the inevitable future political transition in Burma. Read Priscilla Clapp's Special Report, Burma's Long Road to Democracy, published in November 2007.
U.S.-Iran Relations
Briefing before the bipartisan Congressional briefing series sponsored by Congressmen Howard Berman (D-CA) and Chris Shays (R-CT) on the rising tensions in U.S.-Iran relations over Iraq, Afghanistan, Lebanon and Iran’s nuclear ambitions featuring Suzanne Maloney, co-chair of USIP’s Iran Policy Forum, and the International Crisis Group.
Guide for Participants in Peace, Stability, and Relief Operations
The Guide is a "one-stop shop" for information on International Organizations (IOs), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), and U.S. military and civilian organizations involved in peacebuilding operations. It is organized to make information readily accessible, incorporates a number of illustrative scenarios, and includes concise descriptions of institutional roles and cultures. It is formatted to fit easily into a pocket or backpack. Extensive involvement by a Steering Committee representin...
Haiti's Drug Problem
At their White House meeting on May 8, 2007, President Bush promised Haitian President Rene Preval that the United States would do more to help Haiti fight drugs and drug traffickers. What is the effect of narcotics trafficking on Haiti's security and stability? What is the nature of U.S. counter-narcotics assistance?
The Iraq Hydrocarbon Law: How and When?
The much-discussed and often delayed Iraqi hydrocarbon law, approved by the Iraqi cabinet in February, is a bellwether for the future of the Iraqi state. Successful passage and implementation of the law would reflect a strong spirit of compromise and help to calm violence. If, on the other hand, the proposed law fails to pass, it will have negative repercussions for Iraq’s social, economic and political stability.
International Intervention in Gaza: Options and Obstacles
The recent Hamas takeover of Gaza has led to calls for greater international intervention. With prominent figures calling for an international force in Gaza and along the Gaza-Egypt border to halt arms trafficking, what are the demands, options, and obstacles for international intervention scenarios?
The Role of the Media in Conflict
The first meeting of the Institute's Media and Conflict Working Group analyzed the role of the media throughout the conflict cycle. While a considerable amount of analysis has focused on the media’s potential to support democracy efforts and build sustainable peace, no similar effort has been given to analyze the role media can play in conflict prevention.