Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
The Bush Doctrine affirms the legitimacy of a preventive strike and emphasizes the notion that "if you are not with us, you are against us." U.S. foreign policy, therefore, is no longer just about containment or supporting freedom fighters, but about shedding the multilateralism favored by the Clinton administration. Is the Bush Doctrine a sound and effective strategy in the war on terror?
Given the emphasis on democracy promotion as part of the war on terrorism, why does the U.S. ignore the view of the vast majority of Arabs? The U.S. would do well to listen to the voices of its Arab allies and pursue peace and economic development in the Middle East, instead of waging war on Iraq.
As governments and donor agencies struggle over questions of aid and international development, a growing consensus is emerging that there is an explicit link between rule of law reform and sustainable growth.
The rapprochement between Bhutto and Sharif could alter the course of Pakistani politics. During the last decade, Pakistan’s democratic evolution was hindered by the rivalry between these two leaders. Now, Sharif has expressed solidarity with Bhutto by withdrawing his nominations after hers were rejected. The battle between supporters of democracy and the military establishment has just begun.
The events and implications of 9/11 will continue to shape U.S. foreign policy and defense strategy for the foreseeable future.