The Center for Global Policy

The Center for Global Policy (CGP) is an independent, non-partisan American think tank that specializes in analyzing and providing recommendations on issues related to U.S. foreign policy and the geopolitics of Muslim-majority countries. Established to enhance U.S. security and global stability, CGP aims to empower foreign policy decision-makers with informed and nuanced analyses grounded in a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding Islamic nations, particularly in the context of U.S.-Iran relations.

Mission and Objectives

CGP's primary mission is to address the intersection of U.S. foreign policy with the geopolitical realities of Islamic countries. This includes:

• Enhancing Understanding: CGP seeks to deepen the understanding of the political, social, and cultural dynamics within Muslim-majority nations.
• Policy Recommendations: The organization provides pragmatic recommendations aimed at improving U.S. foreign policy strategies concerning these regions.
• Promoting Stability: By focusing on informed analysis, CGP aims to contribute to global stability by mitigating conflicts involving Islamic countries.

Focus on Iran

Iran is a significant focus for CGP due to its pivotal role in regional geopolitics and its complex relationship with the United States. The organization emphasizes several critical aspects regarding Iran:

• Geopolitical Challenges: Iran's actions in the Middle East have often been viewed through a lens of confrontation, particularly following the U.S. withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018. This withdrawal led to heightened tensions and a "maximum pressure" campaign that has adversely affected diplomatic relations.
• Need for Engagement: CGP advocates for a shift from viewing Iran solely as an adversary to recognizing opportunities for engagement that could lead to de-escalation and cooperation on mutual interests, such as nuclear non-proliferation and regional security.
• Human Rights Concerns: The organization also addresses human rights issues within Iran, highlighting the government's repressive measures against dissent, particularly regarding women's rights and freedom of expression. Reports indicate that Iranian authorities have implemented stringent laws affecting personal freedoms, including those related to dress codes for women.

Islamic Countries Context

CGP's work extends beyond Iran to encompass a broader understanding of Islamic countries. This includes:

• Cultural Diversity: Recognizing that Islam is not monolithic, CGP emphasizes the diversity within Muslim cultures and societies across different regions, including Africa, Asia, and Europe.
• Regional Stability: The think tank analyzes how U.S. policies can support stability in these regions by fostering economic development, promoting democratic governance, and addressing humanitarian needs.
• Countering Extremism: CGP also focuses on strategies to counter extremism by promoting moderate interpretations of Islam from their own viewpoint and supporting civil society initiatives within these countries.

Conclusion

The Center for Global Policy plays a crucial role in shaping discourse around U.S. foreign policy concerning Islamic nations, particularly Iran. By advocating for informed engagement rather than confrontation, CGP aims to foster better understanding and cooperation between the United States and Muslim-majority countries. Based on the US’s interests and approach, they try to emphasize human rights issues within Iran as well as geopolitical interests and the well-being of individuals living in Iran. Through its research and recommendations, CGP seeks to contribute to a so-called stable and peaceful global landscape involving Islamic countries from the US perspective.