Q&A
Christopher Boucek
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Source: Getty
In The Media
The Rise of Al-Qaeda in Yemen
Yemen’s mounting security and economic issues require an international approach. Ultimately, aid to Yemen must address the long term stability issues the country is facing, not just American or regional security concerns.
Published on Jan 2, 2010
Source: C-SPAN's Washington Journal
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Yemen faces a unique set of problems that are set to converge at the same time. The country is quickly running out of money, oil (which provides 80% of its income), and water. Sana’a, the capital of Yemen, may be the first modern capital to run out of water. The population is set to double in 20 years and unemployment is at 35 percent, on par with Great Depression numbers. All of these economic issues are exacerbated by rampant corruption and inflation. Moreover, Yemen faces major security challenges from a civil war in the north, a secessionist movement in the south, and a resurgent al-Qaeda.
The weak central government in Yemen does not have full control over all the territory in the country and it is in these under governed places that al-Qaeda has taken refuge, according to Christopher Boucek. Although al-Qaeda has recently become resurgent in the troubled country, ultimately these “long term economic issues will sink Yemen, not al-Qaeda,” notes Boucek. Boucek suggests that “Yemen’s problems need an international solution, there is not a solely American or regional solution” to the multiple problems the country faces.
About the Author
Christopher Boucek
Former Associate, Middle East Program
Boucek was an associate in the Carnegie Middle East Program where his research focused on security challenges in the Arabian Peninsula and Northern Africa.
- Yemen After Saleh’s Return and Awlaki’s Exit
- Rivals—Iran vs. Saudi ArabiaQ&A
Christopher Boucek, Karim Sadjadpour
Recent Work
Carnegie does not take institutional positions on public policy issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of Carnegie, its staff, or its trustees.
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