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.
No Silver Bullets for Afghanistan’s Drug Crisis
Afghanistan supplies more than 90 percent of the world’s opium. Despite concerted efforts to tackle the drug problem in Afghanistan, the industry continues to grow at an alarming rate, particularly in the south, where reconstruction efforts lag amidst poor security.
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...
Public Opinion in the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: From Geneva to Disengagement to Kadima and Hamas
Israeli analysts and pundits enjoy quoting Henry Kissinger’s assertion that "Israel has no foreign policy, only domestic policy." Kissinger’s comment, while stressed too strongly, captures well the common understanding among political scientists and international relations specialists that domestic considerations have a significant effect on foreign policy. This monograph focuses on one particular domestic imperative of utmost importance in periods of conflict and its resolution: public opini...
Ayatollah Sistani and the Democratization of Post-Ba'athist Iraq
Based on historical analysis and personal interviews with a number of aides and representatives of the grand ayatollah in Iran and Iraq since 2005, this report examines the role of Ayatollah Ali Hussaini Sistani in the democratization of post-Ba‘athist Iraq.
Haiti: Hope for the Future
Over the past year, Haiti has witnessed the democratic election of a new parliament, the return of relative security, and the first hints of economic recovery. Still, massive problems remain to challenge Haiti and Haiti’s primary international partner, the United States.
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.
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?
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 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.