Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy

In cooperation with HIVOS and the University of Amsterdam, NIMD has organised a research trajectory and expert meeting on the possibilities for democratisation support in the Middle East and North Africa.

The intermediary result of this research, a policy paper entitled Beyond Orthodox Approaches - Assessing Opportunities for Democracy Support in the Middle East and North Africa, features case studies on Morocco, Egypt and Iran. It also offers openings to further discuss the options for democracy support in this region, if there are any.

This publication will be launched with an event on the 26th March at the University of Amsterdam by way of a panel discussion featuring experts from various backgrounds.

The political context of the region makes it difficult for organizations such as Hivos and NIMD to support democratization. Should these organizations want this and if so how? Hivos supports non-governmental organizations and NIMD political parties. Especially in this region where both targets groups are fluid, it is wise to join forces. But who to join forces with, and how to deal with Islamists? Should these processes be inclusive? And in which way does international political pressure play a role in this region with many conflicting interests?

Event details:

Publication launch: Beyond Orthodox Approaches - Assessing Opportunities for Democracy Support in the Middle East and North Africa
Date: March 26, 2010
Time: 15:00 - 17:00, followed by a reception
Location: University of Amsterdam

Please register your interest by emailing info@nimd.org before March 18th.