Includes bibliographical references (pages 81-84) and index.

Foreword / Jamal S. Al-Suwaidi -- Introduction : addressing contemporary challenges through research centers -- Keynote address : the exemplary path of the ECSSR / Yehya bin Junaid -- Keynote address : leading think tanks : past achievements and those to come / Steven J. Bennet -- Think tanks in the Arabian Gulf : the next twenty years / Anthony H. Cordesman -- The observatory of geopolitical studies : an independent research center for the common good / Charles Saint-Prot -- Forward-looking studies at Arab research centers : a prosepective vision / Abdulhaq Azzouzi -- Contributors -- Notes -- Bibliography -- Index.

"This collection of scholarly papers provides a comprehensive overview of some of the issues surrounding the functions of research centers in the current world. One of these is how research centers can assist Gulf countries in promoting security in the region. With the continued threats of terrorism, sectarianism and counterinsurgency, the book suggests how these issues can be analyzed, in order to better understand their intricate nature, and then be countered through balanced efforts that ensure that these endeavors do not aggravate the problems. This book also examines the work of research centers in various countries and their invaluable efforts to inform decision makers and grasp the agendas, challenges and fundamental aspects of an issue at hand, while addressing geopolitical issues and uncovering the most pertinent data amidst an influx of information. Finally, the book looks at the present and future of research centers in Arab countries, and suggests methods of work to rid the negative image of the future in the Arab mind, while helping reform the education, scientific research and the academic systems." --Page [4] of cover.