This profile piece on Peter Ackerman by Franklin Foer in the New Republic highlights the importance of non-violent methods as a tactic in aiding the aspirations of those who seek to spur democratic transition within their authoritarian societies. Citing Harvard University professor Gene Sharp’s theory that “…Obedience is the heart of political power,” Ackerman argues that citizens could topple their oppressors by simply withdrawing their support. However, he notes that successful non-violent movements set limited, achievable goals.

According to Foer, the success of the “Rose Revolution” in Georgia, as well as successful non-violent movements in Ukraine, Kyrgyzstan, and Lebanon, show vindication for Ackerman’s theory on non-violent regime change for the time being. The possibility that Ackerman’s theory regarding non-violent regime change can be replicated throughout the world has caused the State Department to pay attention according to the New Republic article. Accordingly, with American resources stretched financially and operationally in Iraq and Afghanistan, the United States’ ability to bring about violent regime change in countries such as North Korea and Iran will be limited. Foer argues that in order to continue with the U.S. foreign policy goal of democracy promotion in the Middle East and Central Asia, non-violent means of regime change and democratic transition must be better explored.