Elias Yousif

Elias Yousif is a Fellow and Deputy Director of the Conventional Defense Program at the Stimson Center. His research focuses on the global arms trade and arms control, issues related to remote warfare and use of force, and international security cooperation and child soldiers prevention. Prior to joining the Stimson Center, Elias was the Deputy Director of the Security Assistance Monitor at the Center for International Policy where he analyzed the impact of U.S. arms transfer and security assistance programs on international security, U.S. foreign policy, and global human rights practices. 

Elias was previously a Campaigns and Research Officer with Crisis Action in Beirut, Lebanon, where he worked on advocacy and policy proposals to improve civilian protection, humanitarian access, and conflict resolution in Syria, Yemen, and South Sudan. He also worked with Crisis Action in Washington, D.C. as a Campaigns and Advocacy Associate, where he advised on U.S. policy related to civilian harm in the Middle East and Sub-Saharan Africa. Elias received his BA from American University. 

Projects
Assessing efforts to protect children and prevent the recruitment and use of child soldiers in the context of peacekeeping missions
Supporting effective implementation of the Arms Trade Treaty
Examining the nexus between arms sales, military assistance, and the recruitment and use of child soldiers around the world
Promoting an effective, transparent, and accountable US drone policy and responsible international standards guiding drone transfers and use
Promoting long-term stability and security through responsible arms sales and advancing transparent and accountable policies and processes for arms transfer decisions
An in-depth exploration of how the evolving operations of private military companies are reshaping global peace, security, and human rights landscapes
Research & Writing