PUBLICATIONS BY Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
Research
Commentary
Media Appearances
2008 Research
July 09, 2008
Europe and Israel: Strengthening the Partnership
By Nile Gardiner Ph.D
(WebMemo #1984)
The United States, NATO and key European allies must work together to defend Israel in the face of growing intimidation from Iran and an array of international terrorist movements.
June 10, 2008
President Bush's Transatlantic Tour: The U.S. Must Pressure Europe on Afghanistan and Iran
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1952)
The war in Afghanistan and the looming Iranian nuclear threat will be priority issues for the United States as President Bush crosses the Atlantic this week for what is likely to be his final tour of Europe.
April 15, 2008
The Bush-Brown White House Meeting: A Chill in the Special Relationship?
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1892)
The Anglo–American Special Relationship continues at many levels behind the scenes, from intelligence cooperation to collaboration on missile defense, but it beginning to show significant signs of strain over the handling of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, low levels of British defense spending, and the broader war against Islamist terrorism.
April 01, 2008
The Battle for Basra: Britain Should Launch a Troop Surge in Iraq
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1876)
Walking away from a front line of the war against terrorism would significantly increase the terrorist threat to the West.
March 24, 2008
The Bucharest NATO Summit: Washington and London Must Not Give in to French Demands
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and Sally McNamara
(WebMemo #1863)
Paris should only be welcomed back into NATO’s leadership club on terms that are acceptable to all members. That means rejecting its proposal to build up a separate E.U. defense structure.
March 18, 2008
Iraq Five Years On: The Coalition Is Winning the War Against Al-Qaeda
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1860)
The U.S. and its allies must make a long-term military commitment to defeating the al-Qaeda threat in Iraq.
March 10, 2008
Britain: A Central Front in the War Against Islamist Terrorism
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1843)
The recent conviction of the fanatic known as “Osama bin London” and five of his followers is a significant blow to Islamist terrorism in the United Kingdom.
March 07, 2008
The EU Lisbon Treaty: Gordon Brown Surrenders Britain's Sovereignty
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and Sally McNamara
(WebMemo #1840)
Prime Minister Gordon Brown's decision to reject a referendum on the new European Union Reform Treaty should be viewed as one of the biggest acts of political betrayal in modern British history.
February 15, 2008
The West Must Back Full Independence for Kosovo
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and Sally McNamara
(WebMemo #1818)
Whether Belgrade and Moscow like it or not, Kosovo will shortly become independent.
2007 Research
November 09, 2007
The Bush–Merkel Summit: Washington Must Pressure Berlin Over Iran
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1700)
President Bush must call on all EU member states to support tough sanctions aimed at halting Iran’s drive to build nuclear weapons.
November 05, 2007
The Bush–Sarkozy White House Summit: A U.S.–French Entente Cordiale
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1692)
An "entente cordiale" with Paris is sensible, but any attempt to replace the Anglo–American alliance with a new partnership with France would be naïve and short-sighted.
October 22, 2007
Britain Must Reject the New EU Reform Treaty
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and Sally McNamara
(WebMemo #1672)
The British Government must listen to the growing calls in Britain for a referendum on the treaty.
October 12, 2007
Gordon Brown's Wrong Move on Iraq
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1661)
Gordon Brown's announcement this week that Britain will reduce her troop strength in Iraq sends all the wrong signals at a time when the U.S. and the U.K. are engaged in a global war against Islamic extremists.
July 27, 2007
The Bush-Brown Camp David Summit: Will There Be a Shift in the Special Relationship?
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1570)
Against a backdrop of simmering diplomatic tensions, new British Prime Minister Gordon Brown must act to preserve an alliance that is crucial for defending freedom throughout the world.
July 02, 2007
The Appointment of Mark Malloch Brown Will Strain U.S.-British Relations
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1534)
Mark Malloch Brown's appointment is a slap in the face of the Anglo-American alliance and does not bode well for relations between the Gordon Brown government and the Bush Administration.
June 29, 2007
The Foiled London Bomb Attack: A Reminder That Britain Is At War
By Nile Gardiner
(WebMemo #1532)
Prime Minister Gordan Brown must demonstrate his abilities as a war leader--at a time of great threat to British and international security.
June 27, 2007
Gordon Brown and the Future of the U.S.-U.K. Alliance
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1529)
In practice, Brown is unlikely to immediately transform the essence of the Anglo-American alliance, but he will adjust its style, tempo, and priorities as well as the dynamics that drive it.
June 12, 2007
The Falklands War, 25 Years Later: Lessons for British Global Power
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1501)
Britain was victorious in the Falklands War because it was free to shape its own destiny and willing to use military power to aggressively defend its interests.
June 06, 2007
Great Britain and the International Coalition in Iraq
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(Heritage Lecture #1028)
The war in Iraq is not only America’s war: It is Britain's too. An early withdrawal of British or American troops would have catastrophic implications for the future of the country and would be seen by many Iraqis as a betrayal of trust.
May 10, 2007
The End of the Blair Era
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1449)
Blair leaves behind a strong British stamp on the world stage, but he also leaves a Britain that is weaker militarily, seriously overstretched by its overseas commitments, and highly vulnerable at home to Islamic terrorism.
May 09, 2007
Hearing on Economic and Military Support for the U.S. Efforts in Iraq: The Coalition of the Willing, Then and Now
By Nile Gardiner
(Testimony #9999)
Mr. Chairman, Ranking Member Rohrabacher, and distinguished Members of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on International Organizations, Human Rights and Oversight. Thank you for holding today's hearing on a very important issue: the role of the international coalition in Iraq.
May 09, 2007
The Sarkozy Revolution: Five Recommendations for the New French President
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1448)
Nicolas Sarkozy is a unique figure on the French political scene, but it remains to be seen whether he can bring about the change in both domestic and foreign policy that is so badly needed to restore France’s battered image.
May 02, 2007
The Queen's U.S. State Visit: Strengthening the Special Relationship
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1439)
The Queen's state visit should serve as an important reminder of the bonds that link the world's two most powerful nations.
April 27, 2007
Congress's Call for Iraq Withdrawal Undermines the U.S.-British Alliance
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1435)
Congress is sending a clear signal of defeat to America's enemies in Iraq and across the world, which undercuts the United State's closest ally, Great Britain, as well as the Iraqi government.
February 20, 2007
Trends in the European Union and Russia: Implications for the United States
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(Heritage Lecture #996)
The European continent faces a stark choice between a Europe based around the principles of free markets, free trade, limited government, national sovereignty, and decentralized power, and a federal Europe that worships at the trough of socialism and supra-nationalism. The U.S. policy must support a Europe of nation-states.
February 07, 2007
The Decline and Fall of the United Nations: Why the U.N. Has Failed and How It Can Be Reformed
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(Heritage Lecture #991)
The United States remains committed to working with the U.N., but how long that commitment lasts depends on its willingness to be reformed and its ability to confront the challenges of today. Terrorism, tyranny, and genocide remain the three great evils of our time, and the U.N. will be judged by how it responds to them.
January 22, 2007
The UNDP North Korea Scandal: How Congress and the Bush Administration Should Respond
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., Brett D. Schaefer, and Steven Groves
(WebMemo #1318)
The United States must demand an immediate, fully independent inquiry into this latest scandal.
January 16, 2007
The United States Must Act to End Abuses by U.N. Peacekeepers
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and Steven Groves
(WebMemo #1314)
Congress and the Bush Administration must act to help ensure that those responsible are brought to justice and that future abuses are prevented.
2006 Research
December 11, 2006
Kofi Annan's Legacy of Failure
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1283)
U.N. Secretary General Kofi Annan leaves behind a U.N. tainted by human rights failures, corruption, peacekeeping abuses, and mismanagement.
December 06, 2006
The Bush–Blair White House Summit: The U.S.–U.K. Relationship Is Still Special
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1280)
President Bush and British Prime Minister Blair will meet in Washington amid tensions in the U.S–U.K. special relationship.
November 27, 2006
The NATO Riga Summit: Time for Backbone in the Alliance
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1261)
The NATO Riga summit should serve as a forum for reinvigorating NATO’s role as a powerful force in the global war on terrorism.
November 17, 2006
John Bolton: An Effective Force for U.S. Interests at the United Nations
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and Brett D. Schaefer
(WebMemo #1258)
As U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, John Bolton has proven a forceful advocate of American interests, a powerful voice for U.N. reform, and a staunch defender of the cause of human rights.
November 14, 2006
Britain Must Not Retreat From Iraq
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1254)
While Blair is right to reject a pullout from Iraq, his efforts to engage Iran and Syria are a major mistake.
August 28, 2006
British Conservatives Must Defend the U.S.–U.K. Special Relationship
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1201)
The Tories' odd turn threatens British leadership on the world stage.
August 15, 2006
Britain Must Reject Appeasement of Islamic Terrorists
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1194)
An open letter reveals the real sympathies of Britain's 'moderate' Muslim leaders.
July 26, 2006
John Bolton: A Powerful Voice for America at the United Nations
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and Brett D. Schaefer
(WebMemo #1179)
Bolton has proven a forceful advocate of American interests, a powerful voice for UN reform, and a staunch defender of the cause of human rights.
July 12, 2006
President Bush in Europe: Shaping US Policy Toward Germany
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1157)
President George W. Bush travels to Germany this week to meet with Chancellor Angela Merkel ahead of the G-8 summit in Moscow. In her first months as German leader, Merkel has made a significant effort to improve relations between Washington and Berlin in the wake of the tensions produced by disagreements over the war in Iraq.
July 07, 2006
The London Bombings: One Year Later
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1145)
Thursday, July 7, 2005, will go down as one of the darkest days in British history since the Second World War. A series of bomb blasts in the heart of London killed 52 people and injured more than 700.
July 05, 2006
The Supreme Court Guantánamo Ruling: How the Administration Should Respond
By James Jay Carafano, Ph.D., Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and Todd Gaziano
(WebMemo #1143)
Last week, the Supreme Court issued a split decision declaring unlawful the military commissions the United States planned to use at Guantánamo Bay. Regardless of the decision's legal merits, it is not a rebuke of the Bush Administration's conduct of the battle against the threat of transnational terrorist groups.
June 20, 2006
The U.S./EU Summit: Tensions in the Transatlantic Relationship
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1136)
President George W. Bush's June 21 Vienna summit with EU officials takes place amid mounting tension between Washington and Brussels over the U.S. detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, as well as the growing controversy in Europe over the 'rendition' of terror suspects, and will further illustrate the deep divisions between Washington and Brussels over the war on terrorism. The meeting will likely underscore the widening gulf between the United States and supranational institutions such as the European Union and the Council of Europe in their approach to dealing with the al-Qaeda threat.
June 13, 2006
Malloch Brown Is Wrong: The U.S. Should Press Even Harder for UN Reform
By Brett D. Schaefer and Nile Gardiner Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1122)
In a June 6 speech before the Center for American Progress and the Century Foundation, United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Mark Malloch Brown chastised the Bush Administration and previous U.S. administrations over their approach to the UN. Malloch Brown's comments reinforce the need for the Bush Administration and Congress to press for broader U.N. reform. Instead of acquiescing to Malloch Brown's desire to see America's engagement limited to paying what the UN demands and supporting its edicts, the United States and its allies must increase their efforts to make the United Nations more accountable, effective, and transparent. To that end, the U.S. should oppose authorizing the remaining UN budget until the General Assembly approves the Secretary-General's reform measures. And if an increased UN regular budget is approved over the objection of the U.S., the U.S. should withhold funding for the United Nations.
June 08, 2006
The Death of Zarqawi: A Major Victory in the War on Terrorism
By Nile Gardiner Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1118)
A turning point in the war on terrorism?
May 25, 2006
The U.S.-UK White House Summit: End of the Bush-Blair Partnership?
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1095)
British Prime Minister Tony Blair meets President George W. Bush at the White House this week in perhaps the last major Washington summit between the two world leaders.
May 11, 2006
The British Elections: Implications for U.S. Foreign Policy
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1070)
The UK's May 4 local elections were a political earthquake that dramatically altered the electoral landscape in America's closest ally.
May 09, 2006
Kofi Annan's Conflicts of Interest Must Be Investigated
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1067)
A high-level appointment for a member of a panel that awarded Annan $500,000 raises questions.
April 24, 2006
Forging a U.S.-British Coalition to End Iran's Nuclear Weapons Program
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1047)
Why and how Washington and London should collaborate.
April 12, 2006
Italy's Regime Change: What Washington can Expect from Romano Prodi
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1036)
The U.S. must watch for a potential anti-American axis between Rome, Paris, and Madrid.
April 06, 2006
The Right Decision on the UN Human Rights Council
By Brett Schaefer and Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1031)
The Bush Administration should be applauded for its decision not to seek election to the newly created United Nations Human Rights Council. The 47-seat body is not a significant improvement over the hugely discredited Commission on Human Rights (CHR). The new Council's complete lack of membership criteria renders it open to infiltration and manipulation by the world's worst human rights abusers. Significantly, Burma, Syria, Libya, China, Cuba, Ethiopia, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, and Zimbabwe all voted in favor of the new Council in the General Assembly, in the face of strong U.S. opposition. The brutal North Korean regime has given the Council its ringing endorsement.
February 27, 2006
The UN's Guantanamo Folly: Why the United Nations Report is Not Credible
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and James Carafano, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #1000)
Unsubstantiaed allegations from a discredited body. In other words, more of the usual.
February 10, 2006
UNESCO's Chavez Outrage
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and Stephen Johnson
(WebMemo #995)
A prize meant to reward liberty goes to a despot. What gives?
February 06, 2006
The Great EU Inquisition: Europe's Response to the U.S. Rendition Policy
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and James Jay Carafano, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #988)
The EU still doesn't take the war on terrorism seriously, except when it offers the chance to bash the U.S.
February 06, 2006
Congress Should Withhold Funds from the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA)
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and James Phillips
(WebMemo #987)
There is a real risk that a Hamas-led PA will exploit UNRWA to further its anti-Israel agenda.
January 31, 2006
State of the Union 2006: America's Global Leadership
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #978)
A President's answer to "the call of history."
January 24, 2006
Confounding the Mullahs of Iran: It's Time for Israel to Join NATO
By John Hulsman, Ph.D., and Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #966)
On the surface, Iran appears to have bested the international community in its pursuit of nuclear weapons. As former Secretary of State Colin Powell has observed, after two years of fruitless negotiation, the international community is no closer to halting Iran's quest for nuclear weapons. Instead, the great powers endlessly debate where and when a diplomatic showdown will take place while Iran resumes its nuclear research. In essence, the world is fiddling while Rome burns. The West has one ace left to play before a final showdown looms. Extending NATO membership to Israel could convince Iran's Mullahs that developing a nuclear capability is not in their interest.
January 11, 2006
After Schroeder: U.S.-German Relations in the Merkel Era
By John C. Hulsman, Ph.D., and Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(Backgrounder #1907)
Washington must adopt a pragmatic, realistic approach toward working with Germany. Realpolitik should be the order of the day. As the EU member with the largest economy and largest population, Germany is simply too important to be ignored. It is in the U.S. interest to engage Berlin on an issue-by-issue basis, working together where agreement can be reached.
January 06, 2006
The Bush/Merkel White House Meeting: Recommendations for the Bush Administration
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and John Hulsman, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #957)
Washington must not raise its expectations too high with regard to relations with Germany in the post-Schroeder era.
January 05, 2006
Britain's Conservatives Must Reclaim the Anglo-American Special Relationship
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and John Hulsman, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #955)
The Conservative Party must once again be the home of the special relationship.
January 04, 2006
Germany's Strategic Error in the War Against Terrorism
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #953)
Mohammad Ali Hammadi release last month raises questions about Germany's commitment to the war on terror.
2005 Research
December 28, 2005
Congress Should Investigate the United Nations Tsunami Relief Effort
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #952)
A recent investigation raises serious questions about U.N. handling of tsunami relief funds.
November 10, 2005
The Final Volcker Oil for Food Report: An Assessment
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #913)
The 18-month investigation, chaired by Paul Volcker, has documented a huge amount of evidence regarding manipulation of the $60 billion Oil-for-Food Program by the Saddam Hussein regime with the complicity of more than 2,200 companies in 66 countries as well as a number of prominent international politicians.
October 25, 2005
George Galloway and the Oil-for-Food Scandal: Time for U.S. and British Inquiries
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #892)
A new Senate report lays the groundwork for criminal investigation, and perhaps prosecution, in both the U.S. and the UK.
October 04, 2005
The Case Against British Withdrawal from Iraq
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #871)
British troops must remain until Iraq is stable and secure enough to stand on its own feet.
September 28, 2005
Human-Rights Failure Irrelevance and ignominy at the United Nations
By Joseph Loconte and Nile Gardiner
(WebMemo #999)
Last week's gathering of world leaders in New York, marking the 60th anniversary of the United Nations, already looks like another forlorn triumph of rhetoric over reform. Secretary General Kofi Annan billed the event as a "once-in-a-generation opportunity" to confront global threats and revitalize the United Nations.
August 26, 2005
The U.S. Should Strongly Support Britain's Anti-Terrorist Measures
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #823)
British Home Secretary Charles Clarke this week declared his government's intention to deport or exclude individuals who advocate or support the use of terrorism. Clarke outlined a list of "unacceptable behaviors" for foreign nationals.
August 23, 2005
Make or Break for the Iraqi Constitution
By John Hulsman, Ph.D., and Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #822)
The U.S. needs to push on one issue--federalism.
August 18, 2005
U.N. Security Council Expansion Is Not in the U.S. Interest
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and Brett D. Schaefer
(Backgrounder #1876)
The problems of the United Nations are myriad, but few if any would be resolved by expanding the Security Council. Even a modest expansion of the Council would contribute to gridlock, dilute U.S. influence in the Council, and likely result in a Council more hostile to the United States on many key issues.
August 11, 2005
The United States Should Oppose Expansion of the U.N. Security Council
By Nile Gardiner Ph.D. and Brett D. Schaefer
(WebMemo #820)
In the next few months, the United Nations General Assembly is expected to consider several proposals to expand the U.N. Security Council from the current 15 members.
August 03, 2005
John Bolton: A Force For Change at the U.N.
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #814)
The President's decision to bypass congressional obstructionists and send John Bolton to the United Nations via recess appointment should be applauded by all who support fundamental reform of the world body.
July 21, 2005
The London Bombings: How the U.S. and the U.K. Should Respond
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and James Phillips
(Backgrounder #1871)
Although the July 7 London bombings were carried out by homegrown terrorists, the bombers were clearly part of a larger international network. The fact that British citizens carried out the attacks is a wake-up call for Britain. The bombings must result in a sea change in how America's closest ally deals with Islamic extremists.
July 07, 2005
The London Terrorist Attacks: The Anglo-American Alliance Will Not Be Broken
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and John Hulsman, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #786)
The terrorists fail to understand the British bulldog tradition of rising to meet every challenge.
July 06, 2005
The G-8 Summit: Advancing U.S. Leadership on Africa
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #784)
There are better ways to stoke development in Africa than foreign aid.
June 15, 2005
The Cotecna Memorandum: End of the Road for Kofi Annan?
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #765)
A newly revealed memorandum contradicts Annan's earlier testimony.
June 06, 2005
The Bush/Blair Pre-G-8 Meeting: Tensions in the Anglo-U.S. Alliance?
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #754)
Will disagreements over Blair's 'soft issues' agenda damage the special relationship?
May 06, 2005
The British Election: Implications for the U.S.-UK Alliance
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #740)
Tony Blair was elected on May 5 to a third term as British Prime Minister, but with a greatly reduced majority in the House of Commons.
April 21, 2005
Time for Paul Volcker To Resign
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #729)
The resignation of two investigators from his Committee took what credibility it had left.
April 13, 2005
The Volcker Oil-for-Food Interim Reports: Next Steps for Congress
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(Backgrounder #1843)
The United Nations' senior leadership has apparently not learned any lessons from the Oil-for-Food scandal. Congress should increase pressure on Kofi Annan to resign, launch a major investigation into Iqbal Riza and the shredding of U.N. documents, and call for the creation of an external body to oversee U.N. operations.
March 31, 2005
The Volcker Interim Report on Kofi Annan: Issues of Concern for Congress
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #707)
This latest report dramatically adds to the growing picture of mismanagement, incompetence, and unaccountability at the United Nations, a world body in deep crisis and in serious need of reform.
March 22, 2005
The U.N. Peacekeeping Scandal in the Congo: How Congress Should Respond
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(Heritage Lecture #868)
In the Congo, acts of great evil and barbarism have been perpetrated by United Nations peacekeepers and civilian personnel entrusted with protecting some of the weakest and most vulnerable women and children in the world. Congress has a vital role to play in helping ensure that those responsible are brought to justice, and that abuses by U.N. personnel in peacekeeping missions are brought to an end.
March 01, 2005
The United Nations Organization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC): A Case for Peacekeeping Reform
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(Testimony #9999)
This hearing will undoubtedly shine a huge spotlight on a major scandal in the heart of Africa, which has until now received relatively little attention from Congress and the world's media.
February 18, 2005
President Bush Should Advance a New U.S. Vision for Europe
By John C. Hulsman, Ph.D., and Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(Backgrounder #1825)
A Europe in which national sovereignty remains paramount regarding foreign and security policy, and states act flexibly rather than collectively wherever possible, will enable America to engage the continent most successfully. This flexibility, in international institutions or ad hoc coalitions of the willing, is the future of the transatlantic relationship because it fits the objective realities of the continent.
February 17, 2005
President Bush's Trip to Europe: Key Issues and Recommendations
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and John Hulsman, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #669)
A trip to determine the future of the transatlantic alliance.
February 16, 2005
The Bush Administration Should Not Back the European Constitution
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and John Hulsman, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #668)
An EU-wide foreign policy is not in the U.S. interest.
February 14, 2005
The U.N.'s Heart of Darkness: Why Congress Must Investigate the Congo Scandal
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and Joseph Loconte
(WebMemo #664)
"Acts of gross misconduct have taken place."
February 09, 2005
An Assessment of the Volcker Interim Report and the Independent Inquiry Committee into the United Nations Oil-For-Food Program
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(Testimony #9999)
The Independent Inquiry Committee into the United Nations Oil-for-Food Program (IIC) released its interim report on February 3, 2005.
February 01, 2005
The Volcker Investigation into the U.N. Oil-for-Food Scandal: Why It Lacks Credibility
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(Backgrounder #1819)
Paul Volcker's previous position as a director of the United Nations Association and Business Council for the United Nations raises serious questions about his objectivity and neutrality with regard to the Oil-for-Food investigation. A mechanism for external oversight of the operations of the Volcker Committee should be put in place.
January 19, 2005
The Volcker Oil-for-Food Investigation: Is There a Conflict of Interest?
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #641)
Paul Volcker and the U.N.'s chief cheerleaders.
January 12, 2005
The Oil-for-Food Audits: A Damning Indictment of U.N. Operations in Iraq
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #638)
Fifty-five damning audits.
2004 Research
December 15, 2004
The White House Should Call on Kofi Annan To Resign
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #623)
The President has kept his options open. It's time to act.
November 10, 2004
The Bush/Blair Washington Summit: Strengthening U.S.-British World Leadership
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and John Hulsman, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #606)
The two leaders have much to discuss.
November 08, 2004
The U.N.'s Fallujah Folly
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #605)
Fallujah highlights Kofi Annan's lack of moral clarity.
October 27, 2004
Is the U.N. Meddling in the U.S. Presidential Election?
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #596)
Did the U.N. leak a report on Iraqi explosives to influence the U.S. elections?
October 26, 2004
The British Iraq Troop Redeployment: Why It Is Necessary
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #595)
Is Britain 'sucked further into the mire?' Hardly.
October 19, 2004
Kofi Annan's Shrinking Credibility
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #589)
Annan should step down as Secretary-General while the Oil-for-Food investigation proceeds.
October 04, 2004
A Conservative Vision for U.S. Policy Toward Europe
By John C. Hulsman, Ph.D., and Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(Backgrounder #1803)
Four principles should guide Administration policy toward Europe: (1) Europe will remain the foundation of future U.S. coalitions well into the 21st century; (2) a Europe in which national sovereignty remains paramount suits America's national interest; (3) the U.S.-British alliance must remain pivotal to long-term U.S. strategic thinking; and (4) Europe must be seen as it is, not as many Europeans might wish to see themselves.
October 04, 2004
Executive Summary: A Conservative Vision for U.S. Policy Toward Europe
By John C. Hulsman, Ph.D., and Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(Executive Summary #1803)
September 20, 2004
The Volcker Oil-for-Food Commission: Is It Credible?
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and James Phillips
(WebMemo #569)
What little is known of the Commission's staff and operations is not encouraging.
September 17, 2004
Kofi Annan's Iraq Blunder
By James Phillips and Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #567)
Kofi Annan's jibe undercuts efforts to stabilize postwar Iraq that have been endorsed by the Security Council.
September 07, 2004
The Myth of U.S. Isolation: Why America Is Not Alone in the War on Terror
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #558)
The American public could be forgiven for thinking that the transatlantic alliance no longer exists.
July 20, 2004
The Defense Authorization Bill: A Survival Guide
By Jack Spencer, Baker Spring, Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., Brett D. Schaefer, and John J. Tkacik
(Backgrounder #1780)
As the conference committee reconciles the House and Senate versions of the 2005 defense authorization bill, some of the most important differences that must be resolved include the issues of missile defense; base realignment and closure; the U.N. Oil-for-Food scandal; U.S.–Taiwan military-to-military exchanges; Rapid Acquisition Authority; and "Buy America" and other protectionist purchasing requirements.
June 30, 2004
The Oil-for-Food Scandal: Next Steps for Congress
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., James Phillips, and James Dean
(Backgrounder #1772)
Oil for Food is one of the greatest financial scandals of modern times. Not only should Congress threaten to withhold a portion of U.S. funding for the U.N. unless it is completely satisfied that the U.N. is fully cooperating with inquiries into the scandal, but the U.N. should be excluded from any leading role in shaping the future of Iraq.
June 07, 2004
Blair Could Make a Strategic Error on China
By John J. Tkacik, Jr., and Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(Backgrounder #1768)
The Bush Administration should urge the British government to reconsider its support for French-driven plans to lift the EU arms embargo on China. It should convey the message that lifting the ban will harm U.S. strategic goals in Asia and will weaken the international campaign to advance human rights in China.
June 04, 2004
The D-Day Commemoration: The President's Chance to Remind the World of the Importance of the Transatlantic Relationship
By John Hulsman, Ph.D., and Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #517)
For all the differences between America and Europe—based on different views of philosophy, culture, religion, politics, and economics—great truths still bind together their peoples.
June 04, 2004
The United States Must Stand Firm at the UN Over Iraq
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and James Phillips
(WebMemo #516)
A revised Security Council resolution may not pass muster with those on the Council whose interests differ from the United States' and Britain's. No matter their demands, Washington should not sacrifice its control over security matters.
April 21, 2004
Investigate the United Nations Oil-for-Food Fraud
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and James Phillips
(Backgrounder #1748)
The abuse of the Oil-for-Food program was the result of a staggering management failure by the United Nations and has raised troubling questions about the U.N.'s credibility and competence. The Oil-for-Food debacle reinforces the need for sweeping reform of the U.N. bureaucracy and the need for an annual external audit of its accounts.
April 21, 2004
The United Nations Oil for Food Fraud: How the U.S. Should Respond
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(Testimony #9999)
Statement of Dr. Nile Gardiner to the House Subcommittee on National Security, Emerging Threats, and International Relations.
April 13, 2004
The Bush/Blair White House Summit: Strengthening the Coalition in Iraq
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #474)
The threat of revolution and civil war in Iraq will dominate talks between the two allies, and the Bush Administration will be looking to the British leader to help strengthen the resolve of the international coalition of over 30 nations operating in the country.
April 09, 2004
After Madrid: Preserving the Alliance Against Terrorism
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and John Hulsman, Ph.D.
(Backgrounder #1743)
To counter possible adverse effects of the recent Socialist party electoral victory in Spain, the Bush Administration should shore up the "coalition of the willing," convene a White House summit about Iraq, strengthen the alliance with New Europe, increase anti-terrorism intelligence-sharing, coordinate efforts to combat al-Qaeda in Spain, and support NATO leadership in Iraq.
April 05, 2004
Advancing U.S. Interests at UNESCO
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and Jennifer A. Marshall
(Executive Memorandum #919)
The Bush Administration should make a concerted effort to ensure that UNESCO undergoes fundamental and lasting reforms, and long-term U.S. membership in this organization should depend on implementation of these reforms. The United States should not hesitate to withdraw from UNESCO once again if it becomes evident that U.S. membership is not in the national interest.
April 01, 2004
An Historic Moment for NATO
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and John Hulsman, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #465)
In an age of global terrorism, the role of NATO remains vital. The recent bombings in Madrid have reinforced the need for greater transatlantic cooperation in the war against terror.
March 16, 2004
The Spanish Elections: End of the Road for the Washington-Madrid Alliance?
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and John Hulsman, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #449)
The Bush Administration must do everything in its power to help ensure that Spain does not drop out of the U.S-led war on terror. If it does so, the terrorists will have won at the polls.
March 12, 2004
The Madrid Bombings: Staying the Course in the War on Terror
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and John Hulsman, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #445)
The terrorists' goal was to shatter the Spanish-American alliance, precisely because it has been so effective in combating terrorism. This must not be allowed to happen.
March 01, 2004
The U.N. Oil-for-Food Scam: Time for Hearings
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and James Phillips
(WebMemo #438)
In effect the oil-for-food program was little more than "an open bazaar of payoffs, favoritism and kickbacks." The seriousness of these charges warrants investigation by the U.S. Congress and an independent U.N. commission.
February 10, 2004
A Fresh Start for Liberia
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #420)
So far, the United States has taken the lead in rebuilding Liberia. Contributing further short-term aid and helping to establish institutions of democracy and civil society should be the U.S.'s next steps.
January 30, 2004
The Hutton Report: Implications for the Anglo-U.S. Alliance
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and John Hulsman, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #407)
The report by Lord Hutton is a powerful rebuttal of the anti-war critics who had taken aim at the heart of British foreign policy and the Anglo-U.S. special relationship
January 22, 2004
A Limited Role for the United Nations in Post-War Iraq
By Dr. Nile Gardiner and James Phillips
(WebMemo #402)
An effective job by the U.N. in assisting with the electoral process in Iraq will help to restore its reputation on the international stage.
2003 Research
November 14, 2003
The President's State Visit to Britain: Advancing the Anglo-U.S. Special Relationship
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and John Hulsman, Ph.D.
(Backgrounder #1707)
The goals of President Bush's November 19-21 state visit to London should be to demonstrate a united Anglo-U.S. front on Iraq, strengthen U.S.-British cooperation in the war against terrorism, formulate a joint position on dealing with rogue states, and provide reassurances to Washington regarding NATO, the European Security and Defense Policy, and the European Constitution. The Anglo-U.S. alliance must remain the cornerstone of strategic thinking in both Washington and London.
October 27, 2003
Reform the United Nations
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and Baker Spring
(Backgrounder #1700)
The United Nations continues its slow decline as a force on the world stage and will go the same way as the League of Nations unless it is radically reformed and restructured. The U.N. failed spectacularly to deal with Saddam Hussein, and its influence is likely to diminish further in the coming years unless it demonstrates a greater willingness to address the threat posed by international terrorism, state sponsors of terror, and rogue regimes developing weapons of mass destruction.
October 22, 2003
Recommendations for the Madrid Donor Conference On Iraqi Reconstruction
By Nile Gardiner Ph.D.
(WebMemo #356)
The Madrid Conference will be an excellent opportunity for the U.S. to show leadership on the international stage, and convince skeptical nations that a successful and secure post-Saddam Iraq is in the world's interest. The Administration should also oppose UN/World Bank control of reconstruction funds, and advocate debt forgiveness.
October 20, 2003
Recommendations to the Bush Administration on U.N. Reform
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., and Baker Spring
(WebMemo #353)
On October 21, the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for International Organization Affairs, Kim R. Holmes, will deliver a major address on the challenges facing the United Nations. His speech comes at a time of widespread disenchantment with the U.N. across America. The U.N. needs radical restructuring, revision of its charter, reform of its major commissions, and the streamlining of its bloated bureaucracy.
October 15, 2003
U.S. Military Assistance for Africa: A Better Solution
By James Jay Carafano, Ph.D., and Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(Backgrounder #1697)
The United States is facing increasing international pressure to play a more prominent role on the world's most troubled continent, but instead of sending U.S. peacekeepers, the Bush Administration should consider expanding its U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) to include Africa. This organization could help facilitate the establishment of a more effective African-led military intervention force, reducing the need for direct U.S. involvement
September 24, 2003
President Bush's Wake-Up Call to the United Nations
By Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #341)
President Bush's major address yesterday to the United Nations General Assembly in New York was a powerful wake-up call for an organization that is in danger of becoming irrelevant on the world stage.
September 08, 2003
Achieving Trade Liberalization: Why the U.S. Should Challenge the EU at Cancun
By Sara J. Fitzgerald and Nile Gardiner, Ph.D.
(Backgrounder #1686)
At the September 10-14 World Trade Organization meeting in Cancun, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Zoellick should work to ensure that the final version of the agreed framework is as close to his original July 2002 proposal as possible and push WTO members, particularly the European Union, to reduce subsidies and tariffs and improve market access. In short, he should pressure Europe to offer real agricultural reform.
August 14, 2003
Don't Lift Sanctions Against Libya
By Dr. Nile Gardiner, James Phillips and Peter Brookes
(WebMemo #329)
The Libyan government has announced that it will pay $2.7 billion in compensation to the families of the 270 victims of the 1988 Pan Am Lockerbie bombing, including 189 Americans. The compensation offer is expected to result in a UN Security Council resolution calling for the lifting of sanctions against Tripoli, which have been in place since 1992.
July 25, 2003
The WTO Cancun Meeting: Why the US Should Question Europe's Orwellian Farm Reforms
By Sara J. Fitzgerald and Nile Gardiner Ph.D.
(WebMemo #321)
Developed countries should travel to the World Trade Organization's ministerial meeting in Cancun with a strategic plan to lower subsidies and tariffs in order to finish the Doha round on time. Without real change, much of the developing world will continue to be frozen out of the West's markets and be consigned to further decades of poverty.
