In 2004, policy research centres from ten Arab countries, four European think tanks, and one from the United States collaborated to set the agenda for political and social reforms in the region based on the priorities that the region’s societies themselves formulated. ARI became a think tank in its own right with 20 peer partners across the region, acting as resources for exclusive knowledge on their respective governments and societies.

ARI’s strategy has evolved over the years, reflecting changes in the avenues for achieving democratic reform.

The Arab reform initiative (ARI) is a collaborative think tank established in 2004 to articulate a home-grown agenda for democratic change in the Arab region.

ARI strives to become the leading regional hub for progressive ideas supporting inclusive democracy, full and equal citizenship, social justice, and environmental justice in the Arab region.

We operate on the principles of impartiality, gender equality, and diversity and work to foster vibrant democratic societies in the Arab countries. ARI conducts research, policy analysis, and policy dialogues, while providing a platform for inspirational voices.

ARI’s focus areas have expanded to address social justice issues, political economy, and pressing environmental concerns from a perspective of justice, good governance, and sustainability.

ARI has evolved its partnerships to include new research centres, initiatives, independent media, and emerging political and social actors such as youth and feminist movements, diasporas, and professional syndicates.