The Project on Middle East Democracy (POMED)and the Heinrich Böll Foundation present:

Perceptions of U.S. Democracy Promotion:American and Middle Eastern Views

Most Americans and Middle Easterners agree, according to public opinion polls, that democracy can develop in the Middle East and that only peaceful means of supporting democracy are acceptable. Nevertheless, deep disagreements remain on whether the U.S. should be involved in promoting democracy in the region, and if so, how.

What types of policies and programs do Middle Easterners perceive as permissible and legitimate ways for the U.S. to impact political reform? What actions can the U.S. take to regain credibility on promoting reform in the region? How do Americans view the promotion of democracy abroad compared to other policy priorities, especially when groups likely to come to power through democratic means are opposed to most U.S. policies?