Source: Rainer Sollich in Deutsche Welle, November 15
The progressive decline in the Arab world lies neither with the people, nor with their tribal membership, nor religious beliefs. The region’s main problem lies rather in the lack of will to reform on the part of those who have ruled for decades.
Only a few countries, such as Tunisia and, with many restrictions, Morocco, have shown serious efforts to reform. On the contrary, most kings, emirs and presidents, “legitimized” by sham elections, adhere to their dated power structures. They suppress not only Islamists, but also liberal and democratic forces. As a result, they inevitably create new dissatisfaction, new violence and new instability. The next wave of Arab protests is therefore perhaps only a matter of time – and there’s reason to fear it won’t be a “spring.”
Most rulers in the region profit from terror, violence and instability. That gives them an incentive to block the way for essential reforms so they can remain in power.
Eric Koch’s new book, New Beginnings, was launched on September 20. The book is available from 
I question whether the problem is “dated power Structures” but rather growing contempt for the concept of mutual service between a leader(s) and his/her publics. The tacit social contract has broken down, leaving just self interest.
Who sows and who reaps?