Financial Times
Gulf Correspondent, Financial Times
PROFILE
Simeon Kerr
Guest
FROM Simeon Kerr
Which Way, L.A.?
A New Paradigm in the Middle East Since Mubarak of Egypt was forced out of the presidency, other Middle Eastern countries have seen massive political protests. Protesters have taken to the streets in Bahrain, Yemen, Algeria, Jordan, Libya and Iran. Some have been promised reforms. Others encountered tear gas, arrest, rubber bullets, and live ammunition. Several demonstrators have been killed. The ultimate goals are different in every country, but the common objective is an end to repression and respect for human rights. As the US walks the tightrope between protesters and government allies, does democracy have a chance? Is Turkey the best model for a modern Islamic state?
To the Point
A New Paradigm in the Middle East Since Mubarak of Egypt was forced out of the presidency, other Middle Eastern countries have seen massive political protests. Protesters have taken to the streets in Bahrain, Yemen, Algeria, Jordan, Libya and Iran. Some have been promised reforms. Others encountered tear gas, arrest, rubber bullets, and live ammunition. Several demonstrators have been killed. The ultimate goals are different in every country, but the common objective is an end to repression and respect for human rights. As the US walks the tightrope between protesters and government allies, does democracy have a chance? Is Turkey the best model for a modern Islamic state?
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