My Recommendations to the German Parliament

Strategies for a free and thriving Middle East

Ladies and Gentlemen,

My name is Faisal Saeed Al Mutar. I am originally from Iraq, and I am the Founder and President of the global organization Ideas Beyond Borders, with Offices in New York, Dubai, and Erbil in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. 

The Middle East finds itself in a continuous cycle of missed opportunities.

The world watched the Tishreen Movement in Iraq, the Woman, Life, Freedom movement in Iran, the 17 October Revolution in Lebanon, and others—in silence.

At this moment, Hezbollah is at its weakest in Lebanon in more than a decade. Ayatollah Sistani—who, unlike Ayatollah Khamenei, has called for dismantling militias and strengthening the state in Iraq—offers a unique opening. It’s time to seize this moment, and I urge the German Parliament to consider the following recommendations:

1. Strengthen State Institutions: A normal, functioning country requires a state in control of its territory. This means providing conditional support to states like Iraq and Lebanon, with clear expectations for enforcing the rule of law. Militaries in these countries must operate independently of sectarian agendas, and sanctions should target militias and army officials acting as foreign agents, particularly those serving the Islamic Republic of Iran. That includes enforcing UN Security Resolution 1559, adopted on September 2, 2004. This resolution specifically calls for:

• The disarmament of all Lebanese and non-Lebanese militias in Lebanon 

• The extension of the Lebanese government's control over all Lebanese territory

At worst, UN Security Resolution 1701 pushes Hezbollah beyond the Litani River.

2. Support Independent Civil Society: There’s a well-known truth: no democracy can thrive without a robust civil society. However, civil society must remain independent and free from manipulation by political parties. Particular focus should be on fostering liberal organizations that advance human rights, secular ideals, and democratic values.

3. Bolster Liberal Media Outlets: The German government has already made strides through Deutsche Welle by amplifying liberal voices. Yet, Germany could take a step further by supporting local media channels that promote these values, helping them build sustainable, locally funded platforms rather than relying solely on external aid. This empowers people to shape their own narratives and futures.

4. Strengthen the Private Sector: There is no liberal society without a vibrant private sector. Entrepreneurship isn’t just about wealth—it’s about agency, dignity, and reducing brain drain so people can stay and thrive in their countries rather than becoming refugees. In our work, we have created more than 35,000 jobs, exceeding World Bank projects that might create only a fraction of that. People in the region should be viewed as partners, not contractors.

5. Implement Accountability in Aid Programs: Aid programs in the region need reform, if not dismantling. According to The Guardian, at least 1.5 billion pounds have been lost to corruption in Iraq alone. Redirecting funds directly to private sector companies would foster growth and stability rather than establishing a global welfare state. This benefits both Germany and the Middle East by building lasting, accountable partnerships.

6. Support Liberal Political Parties: The values of free markets, free speech, and human rights built Europe, and they can build the Middle East too. Supporting political movements grounded in these values is essential. Let’s take voices like Dr. Saleh Al Mashnouq's, for example. Dr. Mashnouq is a prominent Lebanese political figure and intellectual who is regularly quoted in Lebanese and regional media. He is known for his direct approach and social media savvy. Dr. Mashnouq, along with other Lebanese thinkers and activists, has long upheld the idea that Lebanon's prosperity lies in unity, democracy, and the return to its identity as a neutral state, free from foreign interference and internal strife. He has articulated these sentiments well, and people trust him.

7. Finally, Ensure Free and Uncensored Internet Access: In times of protest, many Middle Eastern governments have shut down Internet access, stifling the voices of their people and obstructing the organization of civil society. I urge Germany to support initiatives that provide resilient internet access, such as satellite-based solutions, to ensure people can communicate freely and access uncensored information. A free and open internet is essential for any healthy democracy and for empowering citizens to exercise their rights, especially in times of crisis. 

Thank you for the opportunity.