Fikra Forum

The Maghreb

The Algerian Political Scene ahead of Legislative Elections

Islamist influences, independent candidate lists, and low participation rates all threaten the success of Algeria's upcoming legislative elections.

May 3, 2021

Fikra Forum

The Conflicting Moroccan Responses to Normalization with Israel

Moroccan responses to normalization with Israel are split along two opposing narratives, although popular resistance to normalization is unlikely to cause any real change.

Apr 12, 2021

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Sadik Rddad

Fikra Forum

Understanding Moroccan “Normalization” with Israel

The recent rapproachement between Morocco and Israel can be partly understood through Morocco’s long history of relations with its Jewish minority.

Jan 5, 2021

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Mohamed Chtatou

Fikra Forum

After Two Years of Algeria’s Hirak, What Has Been Accomplished?

Algeria's divided Hirak movement needs greater unity in order to strengthen real, democratic institutions.

Mar 31, 2021

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Ahmed Marwane

Fikra Forum

How Morocco’s Diplomatic Efforts in Africa Are Shaping the Region

Shifts in African continental politics and U.S. recognition of Moroccan sovereignty in Western Sahara are components of a deepening rift between Morocco and Algeria.

Mar 19, 2021

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Samir Bennis

Democracy and Human Rights

Fikra Forum

Iran, Iraq, and the Politics of Civilization

The concept of the civilizational state helps explain how Iran is challenging the liberal international system and weakening Iraqi sovereignty.

Apr 22, 2021

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Sardar Aziz

Fikra Forum

Restoring the U.S. Moral Standing in the Middle East through a Focus on Reform and Civil Society

The United States needs to restore emphasis on its values in order to combat critical media narratives and a growing appreciation for China.

Apr 21, 2021

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Hassan Mneimneh

Iraqi Society

Challenges to Secular Reforms in the KRI’s Biggest Islamist Party

Iraqi Kurdistan's Komal party faces a difficult dilemma as it seeks a more reformist direction.

Apr 23, 2021

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Mehmet Alaca
Bekir Aydoğan

Fikra Forum

Iraqi Early Elections: The Will of Iraqis and Opportunities for the International Community

The international community should push for free and fair elections in Iraq as a way to diminish the influence of armed militias on Iraqi politics.

Mar 26, 2021

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Alfadhel Ahmad

Fikra Forum

The Pope, Iraq, and the Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias

The pope's visit in Iraq highlights Iranian-back militias' failure to successfully depict themselves as saviors of Iraqi Christians.

Mar 18, 2021

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Phillip Smyth

Fikra Forum

The Rwanga Awards: Promoting Private Enterprise in Iraq

Societal transformation in Iraq requires motivated, capable young people who can redefine the status quo in their country.

Mar 12, 2021

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Abdulsalam Medeni

Maps & Graphics

Fikra Forum

Uprising or Election: What Kind of Change Do Iraqis Want?

New polls show that Iraqis want institutional change, but they are losing faith in elections as a real means towards reform.

Mar 12, 2021

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Munqith Dagher

India and the Middle East

Navigating Indian Defense Outreach with the Gulf

As India seeks to grow in its self-reliance, developing more balanced relations with the Gulf will strengthen ties while helping to balance against Chinese influence in the region.

Apr 7, 2021

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Manjari Singh

Syria

Fikra Forum

Syrian Kurdish Concerns over Russian-Turkish Compromise in Syria

Russian-Turkish compromise in Syria puts Syrian Kurds in a dangerous position.

Apr 29, 2021

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John Saleh

Fikra Forum

Intra-Kurdish Unity Talks in Northeastern Syria Are Potentially in Jeopardy

The talks, which resumed in April in secret sessions, have made progress toward an agreement. But many are concerned that delays and unreasonable demands have turned the talks into theater among regional parties vying for power.

Apr 20, 2021

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Kenneth R. Rosen

Addressing the Humanitarian and Security Crises in Al-Hawl

As international support lags and the situation in al-Hawl and the surrounding areas deteriorates, repatriation and humanitarian assistance are increasingly

Apr 8, 2021