US foreign policy and democracy promotion in the Middle East: theoretical perspectives and policy recommendations

Abstract

Much has been written on US foreign policy in the Middle East. Since the attacks of 11 September 2001, democracy promotion has been an important aspect of this discussion. In this paper, I briefly introduce the complex rationale behind US democracy promotion in the Middle East in the years and decades preceding 9/11 and outline the changes that occurred following the attacks under the George W. Bush administration. I draw on insights from international relations theory to illustrate the role of democracy promotion within the broader context of US foreign policy towards the region and to assess its impact. Finally, I address recent developments under the Barack Obama administration and make recommendations for US polic