This publication is now archived. What were the main Iraqi opposition groups on the eve of the 2003 war?There were six main organizations that represented a mix of ethnic, religious, and political se…

This publication is now archived. IntroductionIraqi voters going to the polls in elections to choose a permanent parliament will face a diverse list of candidates and coalitions. All told, more than …

A group of Islamist courts have seized power across much of Somalia. Many outside observers are anxiously watching—and interfering—as the power struggle plays out between the Islamists and the offici…

Pakistan is bracing for more turbulence in the wake of Osama bin Laden’s killing. This Backgrounder looks at how state support for Islamist militants has led to growing religious intolerance in socie…