http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/rss/14 This feed contains all new content on the Chatham House website related to Middle East. http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/1003/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/1003/ 00:00, 13th November 2008 - Global Futures: The Chatham House Annual Conference 2008 Global Futures: The Chatham House Annual Conference will focus on issues of global importance each year. Drawing on Chatham House's extensive range of contacts and its adventurous thinking on international political, economic and geopolitical issues, this annual event offers you the opportunity to hear from, and engage in debate with, leaders from governments, business and international organizations as well as expert commentators. Chatham House has traditionally held an annual members' conference. This annual event, primarily for Chatham House members and Chatham House Foundation Fellows, will take a forward look at future trends in international affairs. Taking advantage of our independent stance and unparalleled convening power, it will provide new insights and high level debate on the most crucial issues facing the world today. Is Globalization in Crisis? Global Futures: The Chatham House Annual Conference 2008 will ask whether the most recent wave of globalization - the growing interdependence of societies and economies through the opening of markets and borders - has reached a turning point, marked by the crisis in financial markets and an increase in protectionist rhetoric. The arrival of a new US administration in Washington, new questions about globalization in the EU, the continuing rise of China and India, combined with financial instability in the West, and increased competition for resources globally, make this a significant moment to review the likely future course of this third wave of globalization of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Most of the speeches were held under the Chatham House Rule. Transcripts which are available are attached below. Previous Chatham House Annual Conferences >> Thu, 20 Nov 2008 11:03:55 +0000 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/1000/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/1000/ 17:30, 17th December 2008 - This event will mark the launch of a report which seeks to determine the various dynamics of Iran's current international relations with a view to providing firm policy recommendations for the success of future engagement. Richard Dalton will briefly introduce the key findings of the report before allowing the opportunity for a wide-ranging discussion involving specialist contributors to the project. This will include the nature of Iranian domestic politics and foreign policy, key regional relationships, energy politics and pre-emptive military action and international law. Wed, 19 Nov 2008 13:55:27 +0000 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/994/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/994/ 13:30, 2nd December 2008 - The speaker will consider a changing political landscape in the Middle East under President-elect Barack Obama's administration and in the context of the current global economic crisis. In particular, he will focus on Obama's plans regarding Iraq and Afghanistan and the future of the Arab-Israeli peace process. The speaker will argue that as Western economies turn increasingly to the wealthy Arab states to 'bail them out', the pro-Israeli lobby in Washington will have significantly less influence on US policy. Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:01:38 +0000 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/publications/papers/view/-/id/677/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/publications/papers/view/-/id/677/ Yemen presents a potent combination of problems for policy-makers confronting the prospect of state failure in this strategically important Red Sea country. It is the poorest state in the Arab world, with high levels of unemployment, rapid population growth and dwindling water resources. President Saleh faces an intermittent civil war in the north, a southern separatist movement and resurgent terrorist groups. Yemen's jihadi networks appear to be growing as operating conditions in Iraq and Saudi Arabia become more difficult. The underlying drivers for future instability are economic. The state budget is heavily dependent on revenue from dwindling oil supplies. Yemen's window of opportunity to shape its own future and create a post-oil economy is narrowing. Western governments need to work towards an effective regional approach with the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council, in particular Saudi Arabia. Future instability in Yemen could expand a lawless zone stretching from northern Kenya, through Somalia and the Gulf of Aden, to Saudi Arabia. Piracy, organized crime and violent jihad would escalate, with implications for the security of shipping routes, the transit of oil through the Suez Canal and the internal security of Yemen's neighbours. Wed, 12 Nov 2008 11:37:11 +0000 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/news/view/-/id/474/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/news/view/-/id/474/ Yemen presents a 'perfect storm' of problems for Western governments confronting the prospect of state failure in this strategically important Red Sea country, according to a new Chatham House paper. Yemen is the poorest state in the Arab world, where jihadi networks appear to be growing as operating conditions in Iraq and Saudi Arabia become more difficult. Yemen's economy is heavily dependent on revenue from oil sales but oil production is declining. Based on original research conducted over 16 months in Yemen, this paper by journalist and film-maker Ginny Hill says future instability in this weak and incomplete state has the potential to expand a lawless zone stretching from northern Kenya, through Somalia and the Gulf of Aden, to Saudi Arabia. Piracy, smuggling and violent jihad would flourish, with implications for the security of shipping routes, the transit of oil through the Suez Canal and the internal security of Yemen's neighbours. 'Yemen: Fear of Failure' concludes that Yemen's window of opportunity to shape its own future and create a post-oil economy is narrowing. This fragile state faces several complex and intertwined challenges: the strain on political instability posed by the impending transition of power, multiple internal threats to security, rapid population growth and dwindling water resources. The scale of the problem and the speed of action required pose a challenge both to the international community and to advocates of reform within Yemen. Western governments need to work towards an effective regional approach that includes the tacit approval of Saudi Arabia. The prospect of state collapse in Yemen would reduce any chance of progress towards peace in Somalia and further endanger the security of countries throughout the Arabian Peninsula and the Horn of Africa. NOTES TO EDITORS Read paper: Yemen: Fear of Failure Ginny Hill is a freelance journalist and TV producer. She has reported from Yemen and the Horn of Africa for the BBC, the Economist, the Christian Science Monitor and Jane's Islamic Affairs Analysis. Her film on Somali refugees in Yemen was broadcast by Channel 4 News, CNN, al-Jazeera English and France 3. Ginny Hill is available for interview on +44 (0) 7779 790 356 For all other media enquiries, please contact Nicola Norton +44 (0)20 7957 5739 pressoffice@chathamhouse.org.uk Ends Wed, 12 Nov 2008 11:31:35 +0000 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/986/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/986/ 12:00, 20th November 2008 - To mark the launch of her new Chatham House briefing paper, the Middle East Programme is pleased to welcome Ginny Hill for a roundtable meeting. Yemen: Fear of Failure examines the problems for policy-makers confronting the prospect of state failure in this strategically important Red Sea state. The paper is based on original research carried out over 16 months in Yemen. Ginny Hill is a freelance journalist and TV producer. She has reported from Yemen and the Horn of Africa for the BBC, the Economist, the Christian Science Monitor and Jane's Islamic Affairs Analysis. Her film on Somali refugees in Yemen was broadcast by Channel 4 News, CNN, al-Jazeera English and France 3. This meeting is by invitation only. Wed, 12 Nov 2008 10:06:23 +0000 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/975/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/975/ 12:00, 12th November 2008 - Mr Kiniklioglu will provide an overview of the Justice and Development Party's foreign policy outlook. He will outline the intellectual underpinnings of Turkey's proactive foreign policy in the Middle East and the Caucasus. Mr Kiniklioglu will also link the debate to domestic political trends and offer insights into the current polarized political debate in Turkey. Suat Kiniklioglu is the AK Party Deputy Chairman for External Affairs and Spokesman for the parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee. He also chairs the Turkish-British Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group. Mr Kiniklioglu was previously executive director of GMF's office in Ankara, Turkey. Mr Kiniklioglu worked as a development officer responsible for Turkey, Georgia and Azerbaijan at the Canadian International Development Agency based in Ankara. The remarks will be on the record, but the discussion will be under the Chatham House Rule. For more information please contact Nina Assauer. This meeting has been cancelled. Tue, 04 Nov 2008 17:55:06 +0000 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/news/view/-/id/473/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/news/view/-/id/473/ Chatham House experts offer their perspectives on the key foreign policy and economic challenges facing the new administration. The following quotes and comments from Chatham House are available for immediate use. Dr Robin Niblett, Director, Chatham House Mr Obama's first job will be to keep Americans safe and not to please the international gallery. This does not mean that Europeans should resign themselves to be disappointed. Read full comment >> Alex Vines, Research Director and Head, Africa Programme: Reining in stratospherically high expectations both from within Africa, and from within his own administration, will be a principle pre-occupation for the first years of Obama's Africa policy. Read full comment >> Dr Gareth Price, Head, Asia Programme: Barack Obama, whose formative years were spent in Indonesia, in some ways brings greater cultural awareness of the diverse region than any previous president. Read full comment >> Dr DeAnne Julius, Chairman, Chatham House: The downward lurch of the US economy during the final month of the campaign undoubtedly helped Mr Obama win the election. Can he now return the favour by arresting the economic decline? The fundamentals are against him. Read full comment >> Dr Paola Subacchi, Research Director, International Economics Cries for the end of US economic hegemony may be premature. Despite being badly hit by the credit crisis, the US may still show great resilience. Read full comment >> Robin Shepherd, Senior Research Fellow, Europe There are many unanswered questions on Iraq, Afghanistan, Israel-Palestine and Russia. Obama needs to put meat on the bone now. Read full comment >> Dr Claire Spencer, Head, Middle East Programme: The main headaches for the US administration will remain the three 'Is': Iran, Iraq and the lingering Israel-Palestine conflict. Read full comment >> James Sherr, Head, Russia and Eurasia Programme: It is important for the USA that Russia regain respect for its competence, interests and the judicious use of American power. Read full comment >> Notes to Editors Read all comments in full >> More information on the Chatham House Project, 'Rethinking the United States' International Role' >> Forthcoming event:Monday 17 November 2008 The Whitehead Lecture: Major Foreign Policy Challenges for the Next US President The 2008 Whitehead Lecture will be given by Dr Zbigniew Brzezinski, National Security Advisor to the President of the United States (1977-1981). Contact: Nicola Norton Media Relations Manager ++ (0) 20 7957 5739 ENDS Tue, 04 Nov 2008 17:48:08 +0000 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/965/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/965/ 13:30, 26th November 2008 - The speaker will consider the ways in which he sees terrorist figureheads such as Osama Bin Laden drawing their energies from a parasitic relationship with the West they attack, conceiving of themselves as speaking from within its borders. He will assess the implications of this intimacy for our understanding of globalized militancy today. Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:29:37 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/959/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/959/ 00:00, 28th October 2008 - HE Mr Walid Al-Moualem was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Syrian Arab Republic in 2006. Mr Al-Moualem participated in the Syrian-Israeli peace process from 1991-1999. Prior to his appointment as Minister of Foreign Affairs, HE Mr Al-Moualem served as: Vice Foreign Minister (January 2005-February 2006); Deputy Foreign Minister (appointed in 2000); Ambassador to the United States of America (1990-1999); and Ambassador to the Republic of Romania (1975-1980). HE Mr Al-Moualem has also served in a number of different missions including: Tanzania; Saudi Arabia; Spain; and the United Kingdom. Mr Al-Moualem's publications include: Palestine and the Armed Peace; Syria in the Mandatory Period from 1917 to 1948; Syria: From Independence to Unification - from 1948 to 1958; The World and the Middle East in the American Perspective. Mr Al-Moualem holds a degree in economics from the University of Cairo. Tue, 21 Oct 2008 15:04:04 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/news/view/-/id/471/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/news/view/-/id/471/ A new paper by Chatham House says that the once-in-a-century economic meltdown means that OECD countries' simultaneous collapse in consumer and business spending will get worse and more extraordinary 'out of the box' measures may still be needed before the situation turns around. The paper, Synchronized Dive Into Recession: Focus on Damage Limitation, by Vanessa Rossi, Senior Research Fellow, International Economics Programme, also analyzes China's increasingly important role as the single largest contributor to economic growth. Summary Points The global financial system has suffered a once-in-a-century meltdown that almost brought the world economy to a halt in late September. Confidence and trust have been shattered. In spite of concerted and extraordinary efforts on the part of central banks and political leaders, including recapitalizing the banks, it is not yet certain that the waves of panic and destruction have been halted. Many of the repercussions have yet to emerge, including possible legal action as well as economic damage. Even before this latest explosion, the leading OECD economies were plunging into an unusually synchronized recession, driven by the simultaneous collapse in consumer and business spending. This will now get worse. Will a severe OECD recession engulf the rest of the world? Up to mid-2008, the emerging markets remained strong - 'decoupling' did work. Now the crisis has deepened, no region will remain immune to shock waves. This time round, the outcome for China will be much more important because it has doubled its share of world GDP over the last decade and is now the single largest contributor to global growth. China will fight to avoid recession, but can it win? If it can keep up growth, bolstered by its enormous pool of savings pent up in the banking system, this will provide important sustenance for the global economy. Without doubt, this crisis will require substantial, persistent and coordinated global efforts to turn around - possibly including yet more extraordinary 'out of the box' measures. The US and EU are now getting to grips with the immensity of the task. The message has become 'whatever it takes' to halt further widespread destruction. Note to Editors Read Synchronized Dive Into Recession: Focus on Damage Limitation Vanessa Rossi is Senior Research Fellow, International Economics Programme, Chatham House. Contact Nicola Norton Media Relations Manager ++ (0) 20 7957 5739 ENDS Wed, 15 Oct 2008 10:13:40 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/publications/papers/view/-/id/669/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/publications/papers/view/-/id/669/ The global financial system has suffered a once-in-a-century meltdown that almost brought the world economy to a halt in late September. Confidence and trust have been shattered. In spite of concerted and extraordinary efforts on the part of central banks and political leaders, including recapitalizing the banks, it is not yet certain that the waves of panic and destruction have been halted. Many of the repercussions have yet to emerge, including possible legal action as well as economic damage. Even before this latest explosion, the leading OECD economies were plunging into an unusually synchronized recession, driven by the simultaneous collapse in consumer and business spending. This will now get worse. Will a severe OECD recession engulf the rest of the world? Up to mid-2008, the emerging markets remained strong - 'decoupling' did work. Now the crisis has deepened, no region will remain immune to shock waves. This time round, the outcome for China will be much more important because it has doubled its share of world GDP over the last decade and is now the single largest contributor to global growth. China will fight to avoid recession, but can it win? If it can keep up growth, bolstered by its enormous pool of savings pent up in the banking system, this will provide important sustenance for the global economy. Without doubt, this crisis will require substantial, persistent and coordinated global efforts to turn around - possibly including yet more extraordinary 'out of the box' measures. The US and EU are now getting to grips with the immensity of the task. The message has become 'whatever it takes' to halt further widespread destruction. Tue, 14 Oct 2008 16:44:04 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/949/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/949/ 08:00, 29th October 2008 - Sir Geoffrey will take this opportunity to talk about the political prospects in Iran over the next year, focusing in particular on the Presidential elections which will be held in June 2009. The discussion will range over such issues as Iran's nuclear policy, Iran's role in the region, the Iranian economy and the state of play in bilateral relations between the UK and Iran. This event is strictly by invitation only. To enable as open a debate as possible, this event will be held under the Chatham House Rule Wed, 08 Oct 2008 16:27:16 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/news/view/-/id/470/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/news/view/-/id/470/ The current financial crisis should come as no surprise, writes Dr Paola Subacchi in this month's The World Today. As early as 2004 structural cracks became apparent and now the stability of the international financial system is at stake. The ultimate goal is to prevent a systemic crisis but it is not clear who should take the lead. Also in this month's issue: Martin Plaut, Africa Editor of the BBC World Service, examines the crisis facing South Africa following the removal of President Thabo Mbeki from office. He concludes that what is at stake is the question of whether the judiciary is above political interference. Romilly Gregory of Oxfam explains how cheap mobile phone devices and mobile internet services are fast-becoming critical tools in helping a billion people around the world. Other articles look at Russia and Georgia and the international arms trade. More about The World Today >> Full list of contents: Financial Crisis: Panic, Blame and Crash Avoidance Paola Subacchi Economic Crisis: Down They Fall Vanessa Rossi Russia and Georgia: A Dangerous GameJames Sherr Moscow's Domestic Policy: Russian Roulette Lilia Shevtsova Georgia, Russia and Energy: Going for Gas John Roberts Two-Tier NATO: Alliance DividedTimo Noetzel and Benjamin Schreer Food Reserves: Just One Failed Harvest...Daryll E Ray and Harwood D Schaffer Mobile Phones: Dialling Change Romilly Gregory South African Judicary: Threat to JusticeMartin Plaut South Africa's Leadership: Uncertain Future James Hamill International Arms Trade Treaty: Gun Control Paul Cornish Mon, 06 Oct 2008 12:56:19 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/news/view/-/id/466/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/news/view/-/id/466/ Chatham House is pleased to announce the launch of the Strategic Focus on Turkey Project supported by Doğan Holding. This project will analyse and highlight some of the significant issues resulting from the geo-political and geo-economic position of Turkey, and its implications for British, European, US, Turkish and other governments' policies. Areas of research will include Turkey's role in the Middle East, its role in diversifying Europe's energy security and Turkey's role in the development of the Black Sea region and Central Asia. In addition, Mrs Arzuhan Doğan Yalcındağ, a member of the Board of Directors of Doğan Holding has agreed to join the new Chatham House Panel of Senior Advisers, to which she will bring her experience and personal insights on Turkey, Turkey's relationship with its neighbours and allies, and on global economic issues, including the role of the media in the process of globalisation. Mrs Doğan Yalcındağ, is a member of the Board of Directors of Doğan Holding, founding member of the Aydın Doğan Foundation - a philanthropic organisation promoting education, health, sporting activities and culture in Turkey - and the first-ever woman to become President of TÜSİAD (the Turkish Industrialists' and Businessmens' Association), a leading civil society organisation in Turkey. Doğan Holding is one of the pre-eminent business groups in Turkey with extensive activities in the media, tourism, energy, real estate and insurance sectors. It has joint partnerships with a number of well-established international companies, including CNN (part of AOL-Time Warner), Axel Springer, OMV, Universal Music Group, Burda GmbH and Egmont Publishing. Dr Robin Niblett, Director, Chatham House said: 'Chatham House will be in a position to help give Turkey and its strategic role the prominence it deserves in the international policy debate. We are especially grateful to Mrs. Arzuhan Doğan Yalçındağ and Doğan Holding for supporting this initiative. I am also delighted that Chatham House will benefit from the input and expertise of Mrs Arzuhan Doğan Yalcındağ as a member of the institute's new Panel of Senior Advisers.' Mrs. Arzuhan Doğan Yalcındağ said: 'Dogan Holding is very happy to support a distinctive project on Turkey with world-leading think-tank Chatham House. I look forward to sharing my insights on Turkey and other significant issues in international affairs among such a distinguished globally-renowned group of individuals in foreign policy, business and civil society on the Panel of Senior Advisers.' Turkish translation >> More information on the project >> Mon, 29 Sep 2008 13:12:15 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/920/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/920/ 13:00, 16th September 2008 - Dr Haim Koren will outline the main tenets of Islamic radicalization today, tracing it from its historical beginnings to its current role in the world arena, in particular analyzing its repercussions within the Middle East Peace Process. Dr Haim Koren is currently teaching at the National Defence College in Israel. Previously, he has held leading posts as the Director of the Middle East Division at the governmental Centre of Political Research, and as the Deputy Director of the Religious and Sects Department. He is the co-author of the forthcoming, Mauritania's Complex: Ethnic Identity, Regional Role and Global Jihad (IDC Herzliya, 2008) and Darfur Identity Crisis: Islam, Tribalism, Ethnology and Environment from Historical Perspective (London-Portland, 2008). Please note the meeting will be held under the Chatham House Rule. This event is full. Wed, 10 Sep 2008 14:13:36 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/909/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/909/ 17:00, 10th September 2008 - The New Israel Fund and British Israel Law Association are organizing a panel event in association with the Middle East Programme at Chatham House to discuss the Knesset Constitution, Law and Justice Committee's new constitution for Israel. Places are limited so please register in advance. The cost of the event is £10. All proceeds will go to NIF. If you would like to attend, please contact Amit Handelsman on 020 77242266 or email amit@uknif.org More information >> Thu, 28 Aug 2008 10:05:11 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/906/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/906/ 08:00, 23rd January 2008 - The international community had placed high hopes on the outcome of the general elections in Pakistan (originally scheduled for 8 January 2008) as they were expected to herald a shift towards more democratic governance. The assassination of Benazir Bhutto on 27 December 2007, however, raised deep concerns over the threat of renewed political instability. Dr Farzana Shaikh will give her briefing in light of these new developments. This event is strictly by invitation only. To enable as open a debate as possible, this event will be held under the Chatham House Rule Wed, 20 Aug 2008 10:25:23 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/902/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/902/ 07:00, 15th May 2008 - Most conventional oil market forecasts are expecting the demand for oil to rise inexorably as we move towards 2030. However, there are growing concerns that the supply is unlikely to be available. This is nothing to do with scarcity of oil reserves or misplaced notions such as 'peak oil'. Rather it is the result of very significant structural changes in the international oil industry. These changes mean that international and national oil companies are not investing enough in the supply chain. Consequently, in the next five to ten years, oil markets are likely to face a serious supply crisis leading to an oil price shock which will have huge implications for global energy. This event is strictly by invitation only. To enable as open a debate as possible, this event will be held under the Chatham House Rule Wed, 20 Aug 2008 10:02:16 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/news/view/-/id/459/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/news/view/-/id/459/ As the Universal Declaration of Human Rights approaches its sixtieth anniversary, this month's The World Today looks at the status of human rights worldwide. Louise Arbour, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights 2004-8, writes that while there may be much to celebrate, the goal of making human rights truly universal is far from being achieved. Profound and deepening divisions between rich and poor, a security environment that exposes minorities to additional risks, and an expanded UN membership, have all amplified and exacerbated cultural, religious and political divisions especially on issues such as human rights. Against this background of shifting interests and values, in the name of which, all too often, discrimination is perpetrated, international human rights law provides the best, most reliable and fairest guide for managing and protecting multiple identities. The task now is not only to prompt states to give real effect to human rights but also to create a constituency for the middle ground where different national and regional interests, concerns and experiences can meet, be reconciled and directed to honour the purpose of the Universal Declaration. This will ensure future generations are better equipped to uphold the Declaration's universal principles. Read article. More about The World Today >> Full list of contents: Human Rights Anniversary: Without Want or Fear Louise Arbour China and Human Rights: Power to the People Kerry Brown Rights in Africa: Why Africa? Bonita C. Meyersfield Children's Rights: Young and Vulnerable Mary Buckley Islam and Human Rights: In the Name of Islam Maha Azzam United States and Human Rights: Ending Lapse into Lawlessness Kenneth Roth US Presidential Election: Choice or Echo? Robert Singh UN and EU Terrorist Blacklists: I've Got a Little List Monika Heupel Book Review: Punishing the Wicked David Bentley Ukraine and NATO: Destination Unknown James Sherr Angola Elections: Back to Ballots Indira Campos Politically-Capped Reserves: Let the Oil Flow? Daniel Litvin Securing Electricty: Blackout Bill Durodié Tue, 29 Jul 2008 11:37:15 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/news/view/-/id/458/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/news/view/-/id/458/ In this issue of International Afffairs, Thomas Hegghammer traces the history of the Saudi jihadist movement. Based on primary sources and extensive fieldwork in the Kingdom, the article argues that jihadism in Saudi Arabia differs from jihadism in the Arab republics as it's driven primarily by extreme pan-Islamism and not socio-revolutionary ideology. The article also traces the outbreak - and failure - of the 2003 terrorist campaign by 'Al-Qaeda on the Arabian Peninsula' (QAP). This campaign was made possible by the presence in 2002 of a critical mass of returnees from Afghanistan, a clever two-track strategy by Al-Qaeda, and systemic weaknesses in the Saudi security apparatus. The near-absence of violence in the Kingdom before 2003 was due to Al-Qaeda's weak infrastructure in the early 1990s and bin Laden's 1998 decision to suspend operations to preserve local networks. Now, the Saudi regime is more stable and self-confident - and therefore less inclined to democratic reform -than it has been in many years. Read article. Full list of contents: The Responsibility to Protect and the Problem of Military Intervention Alex J Bellamy Righting the Course? Humanitarian Intervention, the 'War on Terror' and the Future of Afghanistan Fatima Ayub and Sari Kouvo The Vienna Negotiations on the Final Status of Kosovo Marc Weller Iran Under Ahmadinejad: Populism and its Malcontents Ali Ansari Islamist Violence and Regime Stability in Saudi Arabia Thomas Hegghammer 'An Enemy at the Gates' or 'From Victory to Victory'? Russian Foreign Policy Andrew Monaghan Security and Democracy: The ASEAN Charter and the Dilemmas of Regionalism in South-East Asia David Martin Jones Using Negotiation to Promote Legitimacy: An Assessment of Proposals for Reforming the WTO Cecilia Albin The Dynamics of British Military Transformation Theo Farrell The End of Impunity? Lessons from Sierra Leone Gillian Wigglesworth Book Reviews Other Books Received Index of Books Reviewed Mon, 28 Jul 2008 15:21:50 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/892/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/892/ 10:00, 24th July 2008 - Recent reports by the IMF and Fitch Ratings have highlighted ongoing economic progress in Morocco. The preliminary findings of the IMF's May 2008 visit stated: 'Morocco continues to reap the benefits from its reforms efforts, notably the implementation of sound economic and financial policies. Significant progress has been achieved in recent years in stabilizing the macroeconomic environment, bolstering the capacity of the economy to withstand shocks, and strengthening the fiscal position. These achievements place the country in a relatively favourable position to absorb, in the short term, shocks linked to the deterioration of the global environment and to adopt the appropriate economic policy responses to the sustained increase in commodity prices. This will be necessary not only to preserve the gains already achieved, but also to bring about a lasting improvement in the income and employment of the Moroccan population'. His Excellency Minister Ahmed Chami has been Minister of Trade, Foreign Investment and New Technology since October 2007. He has been the General Manager of the Saham Group since July 2005. In this capacity, Mr Chami is in charge of the group's development projects and the operational supervision of subsidiaries, in particular the Essaada Insurance Company, Mondial Assistance and the group's companies specializing in information technology. Mr Chami was President of Microsoft South East Asia in Singapore from 2003-04, prior to which he was Regional Manager for Emerging Countries at Microsoft South East Asia, in Singapore (2001-2003) and General Manager Microsoft North West Africa, in Morocco (1997-2001). THIS EVENT IS NOW FULL. REGISTRATION HAS CLOSED. Mon, 21 Jul 2008 15:12:10 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/news/view/-/id/456/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/news/view/-/id/456/ As President Sarkozy prepares to reinvigorate the regional arrangement between the EU and the Mediterranean - the Barcelona Process - Claire Spencer argues in Europe and the Mediterranean: Eyeing Other Shores, that the project is flawed having failed 'to escape its underlying logic: that it is a European initiative'. As such, the process has been designed to meet Europe's own regional objectives rather than foster cooperation and integration. It is not clear why there is a need for another regional Mediterranean Partnership. The slow results of existing efforts suggest the current framework could be part of the problem as much as the solution. And yet, President Sarkozy has gone to great lengths in promoting his new framework for regional cooperation, soon to be adopted by the EU. With France leading the union's initial launch and project selection, there are grave suspicions that it will be used to advance French commercial interests under an EU umbrella. To survive, the scheme must be flexible and new mechanisms will be needed to overcome the deficiencies of the Barcelona Process itself, as well as its new addition. It must be visible through the direct engagement of those most immediately motivated by shared interests on both sides of the Mediterranean. More about The World Today >> Full list of contents: European Union Treaty: Trust the PeopleRobin Shepherd Ireland No Vote: Ways Out of the Irish Puzzle Thomas Legge Europe and the Mediterranean: Eyeing Other Shores Claire Spencer South Africa: Fundamental Failures Merle Lipton Book Review: Good for Government Alex Vines Small Arms: Gun Control Eric Berman The Gulf in the G8 Agenda: Top Table Time? Vanessa Rossi and Ruth Davis Saudi Arabia's Foreign Policy: Discreet Persuasion Neil Partrick Energy for Asia: Chasing Pipe Dreams Elizabeth Mills Burma after the Cyclone: Making a Disaster Out of a Cyclone Ashley South Analysing North Korea: Big Wheel Turning Rudiger Frank Profile - Sir Richard Dearlove: Overestimating Al Qaeda?Sean Armstrong Mon, 30 Jun 2008 16:44:40 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/882/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/882/ 12:30, 3rd July 2008 - This is a Middle East Programme roundtable event. Mr Yaakov Hadas is Deputy Director General of the Middle East and Peace Process Division in the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Prior to his appointment to this post in 2006, Mr Hadas was Israeli Ambassador to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. In his presentation, Mr Hadas will discuss Israel's relations with the Arab world. PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS EVENT WILL BE HELD UNDER THE CHATHAM HOUSE RULE. Fri, 27 Jun 2008 10:10:32 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/publications/papers/view/-/id/632/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/publications/papers/view/-/id/632/ At the beginning of the Oslo Process the greatest challenge was the question of Palestinian statehood; negotiation of the refugee issue was postponed until the later stages. Over a decade later, Palestinian statehood is generally accepted as a given, and the refugee issue has taken centre stage. The Israeli perspective, from a leadership standpoint, is seemingly characterized by a sense of being overwhelmed, owing to the complexity of elements making up the refugee issue, the multiplicity of actors involved, and a heightened sense of uncertainty as to the consequences of any negotiated settlement. More strategic work is needed at the political and policy-making level to determine the resolution level required for the agreement itself. Much of the detail involved will have to be developed outside the main negotiation framework. More research and strategy development work is needed concerning the Israeli public domain, to assess existing attitudes and possible avenues for widening the public discourse. To this end, the Israeli media should also be encouraged to present the different debates and elements of the issue. There is a need for an international task force of leading experts working alongside the negotiation process and translating both sides' strategic options into operational frameworks. Such support could ease the load on the actual negotiating parties, thereby facilitating the decision-making process. Read more about this project at Chatham House - The Regional Dimension of the Palestinian Refugee Issue. Tue, 24 Jun 2008 09:27:34 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/publications/papers/view/-/id/631/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/publications/papers/view/-/id/631/ The question of Palestinian refugees has long been one of the most difficult issues in dispute in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. With the onset of renewed peace talks following the Annapolis summit of November 2007, it is once again an issue that the Israeli and Palestinian negotiators must address. The two sides are in a worse position to resolve the issue than they were during the last rounds of permanent status negotiations in 2000-01. The political weakness of the Israeli and Palestinian governments is compounded by heightened mistrust between the two societies, as well as by a hardening of Israeli public attitudes against even the symbolic return of any refugees to Israeli territory. There is now a substantial accumulated body of work on the Palestinian refugee issue to guide and inform negotiators and policy-makers. This includes past official negotiations among the key parties, wider discussions among regional states and the international donor community, unofficial and Track II initiatives and a considerable body of technical analysis. Read more about this project at Chatham House - The Regional Dimension of the Palestinian Refugee Issue. Tue, 24 Jun 2008 09:24:12 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/publications/papers/view/-/id/627/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/publications/papers/view/-/id/627/ This is a transcript from a meeting held at Chatham House on Friday 6 June 2008. Event details. Tue, 10 Jun 2008 11:12:21 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/publications/books/view/-/id/961/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/publications/books/view/-/id/961/ This book examines the Gulf region as a financial centre and an economic power hub, focusing on its role in the world economy and capital markets. In particular, the authors address the issue of whether wealth alone is enough to create an international financial centre. Tue, 03 Jun 2008 15:18:43 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/862/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/862/ 16:30, 6th June 2008 - Shirin Ebadi was the first Muslim woman awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2003. Dr Ebadi practices law in Tehran and has a long history of campaigning for women's and children's rights in Iran. The visit to the UK represents a rare opportunity to engage with one of Iran's leading dissident voices directly. Dr Ebadi's latest publication, 'Refugee Rights in Iran', will be of great interest to anyone concerned with the needs of refugees. It will also serve as an essential reference for policy-makers promoting refugee rights in Islamic states. Dr Ebadi argues that there is nothing inherent in the legal structure of Islamic states that prevents them from upholding basic human rights for refugees, and she reveals how these rights are protected in Iran, a country where the Islamic legal system is predominant. The meeting will be held on the record. Mon, 02 Jun 2008 15:31:56 +0100 http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/859/ http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/events/view/-/id/859/ 07:00, 2nd July 2008 - Turkish Islam is undergoing deep changes with potentially considerable impacts on the political, economic and social course of Turkey. Understanding them may illuminate on the future direction of this geo-politically important country. This event is strictly by invitation only. To enable as open a debate as possible, this event will be held under the Chatham House Rule Fri, 30 May 2008 11:51:48 +0100