Policy Analysis

Regardless of the upcoming elections results, there are many Egyptians who feel that Sisi’s policies are harming their country, reflect a lack of national belonging, and are the product of reckless and poorly-considered decisions.

Navigating the confusing Iraqi electoral landscape is just one of many obstacles in the way of reformers, but if emerging political reformist players can form a unified front, put forth a concrete political platform, and resist being coopted by ruling powers, then there is a real possibility for substantive political change in the upcoming elections.

Longstanding tensions in the multi-ethnic city of Kirkuk in Iraq may once again spark confrontations between Turkey and the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), the latest in a series of disagreements over the city.

As rival Palestinian factions clash in Lebanon’s Ain al-Hilweh camp and Hamas-backed militants capture UNRWA schools, new polls indicate that public frustration in Gaza and the West Bank has grown to the point where many would back popular protests.

The Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) has been heading for unprecedented political and financial uncertainties as a result of the growing disputes between the two ruling parties and the central government’s moves to erode the KRI’s autonomous status.

Worried by the implications of Erdoğan's reelection, the Kurds in northeastern Syria need active support from the United States now more than ever.

The current conflict in Sudan has been exacerbated by a limited democratic process after the fall of Omar al-Bashir that failed to incorporate a diversity of Sudanese civilian voices.

Considering Turkey’s pivotal role in the region and a number of current global issues, it’s no wonder that Arab media across the Middle East closely followed Turkey’s recent elections and speculated about the impact of the election results.

Though Syria policies were at the center of the Turkish elections, the future for many Syrians remains unclear even after an Erdoğan victory.

Although the Sadrist Movement withdrew from politics, participating in the upcoming provincial elections would provide them with critical momentum that they don't want to miss out on.

In a new public opinion poll commissioned by The Washington Institute and conducted in March-April by an independent regional firm, Kuwaitis appeared averse to any disruptions at home or around the region, even as tensions grow across Kuwait’s political scene.

Though the Turkish opposition has a serious shot at unseating Erdogan, their success is far from guaranteed—even if they win in the polls.

With elections approaching, the Turkish opposition may have an opportunity to rethink Syrian refugee policies.

For those promoting federalism in Lebanon, a historical analysis of the country's geographic and ethnosectarian divisions demonstrates the necessity of inclusive discussion and collective engagement.

Opposition factions face numerous difficulties in the lead-up to the next elections, as internal disputes may undermine their success.

A change to the Sainte-Laguë representation system will significantly hinder the ability of smaller parties and independent candidates to win seats in Iraq's next elections.

As an Iranian opposition coalesces in the diaspora, challenges loom on the horizon. How the diaspora approaches reformists inside Iran calling for a new constitution will help demonstrate just how cohesive Iran’s disparate opposition groups can become.

The Coordination Framework is poised to yet again change Iraq's electoral law, continuing a history of such changes that have destabilized and delegitimized the political system.

Putin’s shift in MENA policy suggests efforts to smooth the way for Erdoğan’s electoral bid.

Although his alliance with the MHP has kept him in power, Erdoğan increasingly views the nationalist party as a threat that needs to be dealt with.