Foreign Policy in Focus

Foreign Policy in Focus (FPIF) is a “think tank without walls” connecting the research and action of more than 600 scholars, advocates, and activists seeking to make the United States a more responsible global partner.

FPIF provides timely analysis of U.S. foreign policy and international affairs and recommends policy alternatives. We believe U.S. security and world stability are best advanced through a commitment to peace, justice, and environmental protection, as well as economic, political, and social rights. We advocate that diplomatic solutions, global cooperation, and grassroots participation guide foreign policy.

FPIF aims to amplify the voice of progressives and to build links with social movements in the U.S. and around the world. Through these connections, we advance and influence debate and discussion among academics, activists, policy-makers, and the general public.

Latest Work

It’s Time to Delist Cuba

Come off it–Cuba is not a ‘state sponsor of terrorism.’

High Times in Yugoslavia

During global protests in 1968, Yugoslavian youth protested communist privileges and economic inequalities.

Turkey Brings Refugees Out of the Shadows

Turkey is in the process of normalizing its asylum procedures and providing legal assistance for refugees seeking safety within its borders.

Next Step for Assad — Exile to a Rump State?

Syria has become the weak leg of its tripod with Iran and Hezbollah.

Congressman Keith Ellison on US Drones in Africa and Media’s Portrayal of Muslims

Jon Letman interviews Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) about drones, U.S. militarism in Africa, and the portrayal of Muslims in the U.S. media.

Rock the Regime: The Velvet Revolution

There wasn’t always samizdat. But there was always rock ‘n roll.

The U.S. and Chemical Weapons: No Leg to Stand On

The United States is in no position to take leadership in response to any use of such weaponry by Syria

U.S. Efforts to Block Democracy in Venezuela Harm Hemispheric Relations

The U.S. government stands alone among major world governments in refusing to recognize the results of the recent Venezuelan presidential election

Emphasis Added: The Foreign Policy Week in Pieces (5/2)

From nuclear weapons to profiling Muslims to Afghan corruption.

Immigration Reform in 2013 and Beyond

If public will and common sense are the driving forces of policy development, we should see meaningful action on immigration this year.

Americans Will Never Fear Everyday Gun Violence Like They Do Terrorism

One they view as the cost of living in a free society, the other as war.

Build a Nation, Not a Fence

We need an audacious immigration proposal that puts people before politics, and that means a concrete, expedient pathway to citizenship for undocumented workers.

U.S. Explores Military Engagement With Burma’s Brutal Military

In its rush to jump on the Burma investment bandwagon, the U.S. is actually exploring working with Burma’s army.

Burma as Capable of Scapegoating Muslims as Anybody

Burma’s Muslims are caught in a cross-fire between Chinese and Western investment.

Try Boston Marathon Bomber for His Crimes, Not His Religion or Nationality

As usual Fox News leads the race to the bottom.

Washington’s Nuclear Hypocrisy

Washington sanctions North Korea and Iran while bolstering its own nuclear arsenal and turning a blind eye to Israel’s.

Review: God Loves Uganda

God Loves Uganda takes an extraordinary look at the influence of conservative American evangelicals on Ugandan society.

Emphasis Added: The Foreign Policy Week in Pieces (4/26)

From schools for terrorists to psychotherapy for terrorists.

Explaining the Cyprus Shakedown

Despite Cyprus’ small size, the implications of its bailout deal deal could have serious consequences for the eurozone.

You Don’t Know Squat

When the Berlin Wall fell, squat culture expanded as Berliners took over abandoned properties in East Berlin.