国会研究服务部-阿曼：政治、安全与美国政策（英文）-2021.5-23页_1mb

Summary of Oman: Politics, Security, and U.S. Policy

Core Content

Oman, a strategic partner of the United States since 1980, has maintained a unique position in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) by avoiding direct military interventions and focusing on mediation. The Sultanate is governed by Sultan Qaboos bin Sa'id Al Said until his death in January 2020, after which his cousin Haythim bin Tariq Al Said succeeded him. Haythim has continued Qaboos's policies, emphasizing diplomacy and stability over confrontation.

Main Points

Political System and Reform

• Oman remains a monarchy with centralized decision-making power in the Sultan's hands.
• A 1996 "Basic Law" established a bicameral legislature, the Oman Council, which includes the Consultative Council (elected) and the State Council (appointed).
• Political reform has been gradual, with limited legislative powers and no formal political parties.
• In 2011, protests emerged, primarily due to economic grievances and demands for more political representation, but not for the Sultan's resignation.
• The government responded with reforms and job creation, which helped to quell unrest.
• Despite some progress, Oman's political representation for women remains low, with the 2021 Global Gender Gap Report ranking the country poorly in terms of female political participation.

Human Rights

• Restrictions on freedom of expression, the press, and the internet are common, including censorship and blocking of websites.
• The government has prosecuted bloggers and activists for "defaming the Sultan" or violating cyber laws.
• There are legal restrictions on freedom of association and peaceful assembly.
• The government has been criticized for its treatment of migrant workers, including forced labor and abuse.
• Religious freedom is generally allowed, but non-Muslims are restricted in building places of worship, and there are legal penalties for offending Islam or other Abrahamic religions.

U.S. Relations

• The U.S. has had diplomatic and economic ties with Oman since the early 19th century, with a formal treaty signed in 1833.
• Oman has provided access to its facilities for U.S. military operations since 1980 and has been a key partner in counterterrorism efforts.
• Oman has played a critical role in U.S.-Iran relations, including facilitating the release of U.S. citizens and serving as a mediator in negotiations that led to the 2015 Iran nuclear agreement (JCPOA).
• The U.S. provides limited security assistance to Oman, primarily aimed at enhancing counterterrorism and border security capabilities.

Regional Foreign Policy

• Oman has historically maintained a more independent foreign policy than other GCC states, particularly Saudi Arabia.
• It has opposed military actions against Iran and its proxies, including the 2017 Saudi/UAE-led isolation of Qatar and the 2015 Saudi-led coalition in Yemen.
• Oman has engaged in cooperation with Iran, including joint military exercises and infrastructure projects such as the Al Duqm port and the Hengam oilfield.
• The U.S. and Iran have used Oman as an intermediary in hostage exchanges and diplomatic talks.

Security and Defense

• Oman has not contributed military forces to the U.S.-led coalition against ISIS but has participated in joint military exercises with Iran.
• The U.S. has provided security assistance, including arms sales and training, to Oman to support its counterterrorism and border security capabilities.
• Oman has also been involved in countering money laundering and terrorism financing, and has implemented measures to combat violent extremism.

Economic Overview

• Oman's economy is somewhat more diversified than other GCC states due to its limited oil and gas reserves.
• The country has faced economic challenges, including the decline in oil prices since 2014 and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The 2006 U.S.-Oman Free Trade Agreement (FTA) aimed to support economic diversification.
• Oman has increased efforts to attract foreign investment and reduce reliance on expatriate labor, including the introduction of a national unemployment insurance scheme in 2020.

Key Information

• Population: 3.6 million (about 46% are expatriates).
• Economy: GDP (PPP) of $137 billion, GDP per capita of $31,101 (2020), real growth rate of -6.2% (2020).
• Energy: Oil production of 951,000 bpd, natural gas production of 875 billion cubic feet per year.
• Foreign Exchange/Gold Reserves: $15 billion (2020).
• External Debt: $75.4 billion (2020).
• Labor: Approximately 80% of the labor force is composed of migrant workers, many of whom face forced labor conditions.
• Military Cooperation: Oman has held joint military exercises with Iran and has been a key partner in U.S. counterterrorism efforts.
• Political Institutions: The Consultative Council has gradually expanded in size and authority, with a small percentage of female representation.
• Unrest: Occurred in 2011 and 2018, driven by economic concerns rather than political reform demands.

Conclusion

Oman maintains a stable and strategic relationship with the United States, characterized by cooperation in security and economic matters. While it has made some political and economic reforms, its political system remains centralized, and it continues to face challenges related to human rights, labor conditions, and economic vulnerability. Oman's role as a mediator between regional powers, particularly Iran and the U.S., underscores its diplomatic significance in the Middle East.