A Quaker Lobby in the Public Interest
Foreign Policy
FCNL's foreign policy program works to end current wars and prevent new ones, with the long-term vision of a world without war.
Michael Shank leads the foreign policy team. Michael previously served as Senior Policy Advisor and Communications Director for a member of Congress. He brings a wealth of experience in policy development, including four years as a congressional staffer, and extensive work in Asia, Middle East, and Africa. He recently completed a Ph.D. on conflict and global climate change at George Mason University's School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution.
FCNL urges Congress to reject calls for military action and indiscriminate sanctions, and to press for sustained negotiations with Iran to prevent war.
Kate Gould leads FCNL's lobbying on a peaceful solution to the U.S. conflict with Iran, working with with policy assistant Kathy Zager.
More on Iran »
War is not the answer in Afghanistan. The transition process must involve a comprehensive, Afghan-led regional agreement with Afghanistan's neighbors to promote cooperation and regional stability.
Matt Southworth leads FCNL's efforts to end the U.S. war in Afghanistan along with work on drones policy and counterterrorism, working with program assistant Adam Cohen.
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By strengthening U.S. contributions in three areas: diplomacy, development, and international cooperation, the United States could shift its foreign policy away from late military reaction to crises toward early, peaceful prevention. That change would save lives and resources.
Kathy Zager lobbies to strengthen the U.S. government's capacity to prevent genocide and mass atrocities.
More on the peaceful prevention of deadly conflict »
Vigorous U.S. leadership, in partnership with the international community is needed to help resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and end the enforced isolation of Gaza.
Kate Gould leads FCNL's lobbying on Middle East peace.
More on the Middle East »
Kenya’s 2007 national elections erupted into violence that left more than 1,200 people dead and hundreds of thousands displaced. Since then, Kenyan Friends and others have worked to prevent a return to violence in their communities, and FCNL has advocated for U.S. policies that help support – rather than undermine – those promoting peace and reform.
Cassidy Regan is the Kenya Project Associate.
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Widespread and indiscriminate use of drones may carry some significant negative consequences for the U.S. With a lack of overarching strategy, many leaders may see drones as a low cost—both human and financial—alternative to war. Under this logic, the U.S. may conduct undeclared wars with little or no congressional or public oversight, and operating outside of legal norms.
Matt Southworth lobbies on drone policy.
More on drones »
