Arab Reform Initiative

In 2004, policy research centres from ten Arab countries, four European think tanks, and one from the United States collaborated to set the agenda for political and social reforms in the region based on the priorities that the region’s societies themselves formulated. ARI became a think tank in its own right with 20 peer partners across the region, acting as resources for exclusive knowledge on their respective governments and societies.

ARI’s strategy has evolved over the years, reflecting changes in the avenues for achieving democratic reform.

Before the Arab uprisings, the most effective way to influence policy was by building pressure from below to instigate long-term social and institutional change.

Following 2011, ARI’s work shifted towards accompanying and consolidating the transition out of authoritarianism by addressing how street mobilization could lead to genuine political participation.

A third phase followed, as the legacy of authoritarian rule and the proliferation of terrorism destabilized and created conflict in several countries. In this defining moment, the ARI community felt the need to make a different kind of contribution.

First, by producing analytical work that alerts to the risks of breaking up national entities.

Second, by defining security arrangements and developing comprehensive security frameworks that set the stage for permanent political organization.

Third, by providing a platform for citizens to articulate new terms and principles to guide the process of rebuilding their national body.