Commentary
Nathan J. Brown
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Source: Getty
Testimony
U.S. Policy and the Muslim Brotherhood
As Egypt transitions to democracy, the once-outlawed Muslim Brotherhood is looking to play a more active role in the nation’s political life.
Published on Apr 13, 2011
Source: April 13
U.S. Policy Recommendations:
- Recognize the Brotherhood’s political maturity: Despite its radical roots, the Muslim Brotherhood has clearly and consistently renounced violence for decades and is deeply committed to peaceful political change. U.S. policy and rhetoric should reflect this reality.
- Support political integration: American interests in Egypt are best served through the development of a stable and inclusive political system. Toward that end, the Brotherhood should be allowed to organize a political party and contest elections if it so chooses.
- Take a realistic view of the Brotherhood’s popularity: Though often described as the best organized political force within Egypt, the Brotherhood is a cautious and conservative organization that will have to make many adjustments to successfully compete in free and fair elections.
“There is every reason to be interested in the Brotherhood’s myriad (and surprisingly diverse) country-based movements, but there is no reason to fear it as a menacing global web,” concludes Brown.
About the Author
Nathan J. Brown
Nonresident Senior Fellow, Middle East Program
Nathan J. Brown, a professor of political science and international affairs at George Washington University, is a distinguished scholar and author of nine books on Arab politics and governance, as well as editor of five books.
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- Looking Past the Wall on Palestine-IsraelCommentary
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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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