Sustainable Development Is Possible in Yemen

Protracted instability in Yemen and the serious security threats it poses have been subjects of heated international debates in recent months. However, apart from reiterating the grim outlook of Yemen’s future, few concrete suggestions emerged on what can be done to improve the situation there. In this Feature Service article, Danya Greenfield, Middle East and North Africa Program Officer at CIPE, talks about what the U.S. and the international community should consider in their approach. She says,

    “Strategies to combat extremism cannot be viewed solely through the lens of counterterrorism, border security, and security sector reform. Addressing Yemen’s instability must also focus on good governance, corruption, and economic reform. A global approach is needed to bolster the capacity of the Yemeni government to respond to the needs of its citizens to help curb the poverty and hopelessness that breeds conflict, discontent, and extremism.”

Article at a Glance

  • In order to combat extremism in Yemen, U.S. military assistance must be coupled with a comprehensive policy approach that examines good governance, corruption, and economic reform.
  • International donors must prioritize their aid to Yemen by focusing on strengthening government institutions at all levels, uncovering the root causes of corruption, and supporting the Yemeni private sector.
  • The ultimate responsibility for sustainable development in Yemen lies with Yemeni leaders, who must demonstrate real dedication in achieving lasting reform.

Published Date: February 19, 2010