About The Détente Center for Peace and Freedom

The Détente Center for Peace and Freedom is a non-partisan, non-profit organization dedicated to advancing understanding, integrity, and cooperation across Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, Central Asia, and the Middle East.
We promote informed dialogue, transparent governance, and mutual respect through education, research, and civic engagement.

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Our Vision

A world where informed citizens, ethical leaders, and open institutions work together to sustain peace and prosperity through dialogue rather than division.

What We Do

  • Empower communities through policy literacy and civic education.

  • Support integrity, transparency, and accountable governance.

  • Encourage sustainable economic cooperation and knowledge exchange.

  • Promote interfaith dialogue and freedom of belief as foundations for peace.

Leadership & Advisory Team

Our leadership brings together experience in governance, international affairs, and cross-sector cooperation to guide the Center’s mission.

Chris Nixon Cox Image
  • Chairman of the Board

    Christopher Nixon Cox is an attorney, political commentator, and member of the Nixon family. A graduate of Princeton University and NYU School of Law, he has advised on U.S. foreign policy and served on boards advancing global development and security cooperation.

    He brings extensive experience in international relations, law, and political affairs to the Center’s strategic direction.

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  • Managing Director, Board Member

    Louay Baze is a Washington-based professional with a diverse background in military service, operational leadership, and public policy engagement, with a focus on the Middle East and U.S. strategic affairs. He has advised on intergovernmental cooperation, conflict-stabilization planning, and policy outreach involving defense, security, and development sectors.

    Louay oversees institutional operations and international partnerships, guiding the Center’s mission to connect regional expertise with global dialogue on peace, governance, and accountable leadership.

Tom Ross Image
  • Vice Chair, Board Member

    Building on his public service career, Tom transitioned into international advisory and investment leadership, applying his understanding of governance and accountability to the private sector.

    Tom contributes his combined political and financial expertise to promote responsible leadership, civic integrity, and cross-sector collaboration across the regions the Center serves.

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  • Program Director, Economic Development & Cooperation

    Irakli Ezugbaia is an executive with extensive experience in real estate, logistics, and infrastructure development across Eastern Europe and the Caucasus. His professional background spans strategic management, project finance, and implementation of regional economic initiatives focused on transparency, accountability, and institutional growth.

    Irakli leads programs that advance economic policy dialogue and responsible development, fostering cooperation among business, civic, and governmental partners to promote sustainable reform and regional integration.

Join Our Mission for Dialogue and Accountability

Be part of an international network advancing integrity, cooperation, and understanding across Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, Central Asia, and the Middle East.
Your engagement strengthens the cause of informed leadership and transparent governance.

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Partners & Network

Compliance & Transparency

Integrity in Structure and Conduct

  • Incorporated in the State of Wyoming as a 501(c)(4) social-welfare organization under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code.

  • Operates to advance public understanding, civic education, and accountable governance in accordance with federal and state law.

  • A public-policy advocacy conducted is strictly within the permissible limits for 501(c)(4) organizations.

  • Maintains full transparency and record-keeping standards consistent with the federal and state legislation and related disclosure requirements.

Contact us

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