Since the fall of the unitary state in 1991 and the subsequent two decades of lawlessness, local Somali communities have been gradually drifting away from one another into more exclusive clans protected by regional authorities. With the absence of a functioning national government to restore public confidence and provide basic governmental services, most Somalis below the age of 30 today generally identify with regional and clan-based entities that are antithetical to the existence of a central government.
Grand Poobah of R2P Goes All Travis Bickle on FPIF’s Zunes
When foreign minister of Australia, celebrated peace advocate Gareth Evans countenanced Indonesian slaughter in East Timor.
The Right’s Curious Nostalgia for Military Rule
Neoconservatives are finding the entry of a Muslim Brotherhood candidate in the race for Egypt’s presidency hard to swallow.
Dam and Ethnic Disputes Threaten to Undermine Credibility of Burma’s President
Between a controversial dam benefiting China and dealing with Burma’s ethnic minorities in good faith, Burma’s President Thein Sein has his work cut out for him.
Mountains Made of Muslims
Few in the West are aware of the extent of the savagery that Christians rained down on Muslims during the crusades.
Jamming the NSA
Declare jihad on illegal surveillance.
America’s Sanctions Hit Home
A recent federal case against an American charitable organization reveals the unfortunate state of affairs for Muslim Americans, the squandered potential of citizen diplomacy, and the legal and practical problems posed by economic sanctions against Iran.
Many Share Blame With Sgt. Bales for Killing of 17 Afghans
Guilt for the 17 Afghan civilians that Sgt. Bales was alleged to have killed is shared by many Americans.
Cuba: Ever the Scapegoat Closest to Hand
In an election year, presidential candidates spend a great deal of time bowing before the altar of the creaky Cuban embargo
To Know Your “Enemy,” Know Yourself: Towards a More Profound Objectivity
It’s especially difficult to demonstrative objectivity when reporting on and analyzing the minds of those who attack us.