The National Democratic Institute is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization working to support and strengthen democratic institutions worldwide through citizen participation, openness and accountability in government.

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Renewed internal conflict threatens Haiti's recovery.  Failure to control armed gangs, violent crime and drug trafficking weakens the rule of law, curbs economic growth and foments civil unrest.  Central to Haiti's future are its problematic security institutions: the weak Haitian National Police, the embattled United Nations peacekeeping force and the disbanded Haitian Army that President Martelly wants to rebuild. 

Amid a turbulent yet inspiring year of historic changes in the Middle East and North Africa, it is important to consider opportunities for U.S. democracy assistance in the region. The federal government’s role in providing assistance to governments and civil society organizations is hotly contested in policy and academic circles.

On Jan. 14, longtime president of Tunisia, Zine el Abidine Ben Ali, fled the country following weeks of mounting anti-government protests. Tunisia’s mass popular uprising, known as the “Jasmine Revolution,” sparked anti-government and pro-reform movements in other countries across the region, and precipitated the Arab Spring. On Oct. 23, Tunisia will hold national elections to select a transitional, 218-seat National Constituent Assembly, which will be charged with drafting a new constitution and preparing for presidential and parliamentary elections.