Michael Shank is US Vice President at the Institute for Economics and Peace. Michael also serves on the board of the National Peace Academy, is a doctoral candidate at George Mason University’s School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution and an Associate at the Global Partnership for the Prevention of Armed Conflict.
Between 2009 and 2011, Michael Shank served for three years as the Senior Policy Advisor and Communications Director for US Congressman Mike Honda (CA-15).
Previously, Michael worked for over 15 years as an analyst-adviser to the UN, government and non-governmental representatives in the Middle East, South and Southeast Asia and the United States on diplomatic, energy, environmental and security policy initiatives.
From 2007-2008, Michael was the communications director at George Mason University’s School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution. At the University, Michael advised the School’s conflict experts on strategic media and policy initiatives related to domestic and international conflicts. In 2006, Michael served as the Press Secretary for Citizens for Global Solutions – a Washington-based organization advocating on behalf of international institutions, law, and treaties – handling communications and media relations for the organization. In 2004-2005, Michael served as the Director of Public Affairs for World Culture Open in New York City. In that role, he coordinated with UN agencies and Culture Ministers to develop culture-based analyses and frameworks for development and diplomacy.
A doctoral candidate at George Mason University’s School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution, Michael contributes to The Financial Times, The Guardian, The Economist, The Washington Times, New York Times, Washington Post, San Francisco Chronicle, Christian Science Monitor, The Nation, Roll Call, The Hill, among others. Additionally, Michael is a frequent on-air analyst for FOX News, CTV News, Al Jazeera, Russia Today, and Voice of America’s Pashto, Dari, Urdu, and Somali services.