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.
Elections in the DRC: The Bemba Surprise
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.
Religion in World Affairs: Its Role in Conflict and Peace
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 conflic
Toward Peace in the Southern Philippines
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.
Sudanese Universities as Sites of Social Transformation
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.
Pakistani Public Opinion on Democracy, Islamist Militancy, and Relations with the U.S.
In this volatile election season in Pakistan, attention is once again turning toward Pakistani national identity, security, and foreign policy. To better assess the situation, USIP and WorldPublicOpinion.org conducted a joint public opinion survey of urban Pakistanis on a wide array of compelling policy questions.
On the Issues: Colombia
Image on right: In Bogota's main square, relatives and friends of kidnapped people by the FARC march to demand the release of all the hostages. (AP Photo) In January 2008, two Colombian hostages who had been held by the FARC guerilla group were freed in an agreement brokered by Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez. However, more than 700 hostages remain, including former presidential candidate Ingrid Betancourt and three U.S. citizens. Ginny Bouvier is a senior program officer in USIP’s Gran...
On the Issues: Afghanistan/Pakistan
J Alexander Thier puts into context the new strains on Afghanistan and Pakistan's relationship including the recent assassination of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto and Afghanistan's resurgent Taliban and out of control opium trade.
Keeping an Eye on an Unruly Neighbor: Chinese Views of Economic Reform and Stability in North Korea
What is the nature of internal Chinese debate regarding North Korea? In the event of instability in the Korean peninsula, how would Beijing respond? Drawing on discussions with North Korea specialists during a Center for Strategic and International Studies-USIP delegation visit to the People's Republic of China, this report explores these and related issues.
Higher Education and the Future of Iraq
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.
How We Missed the Story
Award-winning journalist Roy Gutman weaves a narrative that exposes how and why the U.S. government, the United Nations, and the Western media "missed the story" in the leadup to 9/11.