Madness in the Maghreb! First Tunisia, whence refugees are even now making their way to Canada, slowed down somewhat by the weight of the gold bars in their luggage.
Then disturbances in Yemen and Algeria. And now Egypt. As I write, an excited radio commentator is describing riots in Cairo as Egypt's "Berlin moment". Walt doesn't think so.
Even if regime change does come to Egypt and the other countries of north Africa, don't expect a sudden outbreak of democracy, prosperity and peace. The people of those states are Arabs. Democracy and pluralism (political or religious) are not part of their history and culture. In the Arab societies, absolutism and authoritarianism are accepted as the norm.
Some of the countries may be officially secular but in practice they are dominated by Islam. The Islamic militants, such as Egypt's Muslim Brotherhood, aren't going to go away. Attacks on tourists will continue, no matter who's in charge. Likewise the persecution and martyrdom of Christians.
So before we all rush to church to give thanks for the long-overdue civilization of the Arab world, let's take a moment for a large reality check. Tune in again in a year's time and see whether change has been for better or worse.
Footnote: Reports are that the social media are being used to organize demonstrations and get the news out to the rest of the world. It seems the protesters are making maximum use of Fezbook.
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