Elite Choices, Path Dependency and the Arab Spring
Structural and demographic factors have been favoured as explanations for the Arab Spring, but more careful analysis and research points to the impact of national elites.
Looking Back at 2011
2011 is a moment in history which encapsulated the impulse for achieving democracy yet a review of subsequent events show democratisation is an extremely complex process.
Technology and Tyranny: Social Media and the End of the Liberal World Order
Social media are used by authoritarian regimes and tyrants – and as instruments of resistance. In both cases, they participate in the redefinition of the world order.
Online Resources – The Arab League
A brief introduction to the Arab League, also known as the League of Arab States, with links and media to further explore.
Huntington vs. Mearsheimer vs. Fukuyama: Which Post-Cold War Thesis is Most Accurate?
Scholars cannot discount Huntington because core parts of his arguments still remain relevant to the narratives of today even if he is incorrect in some places.
Review – The Square
Noujaim’s documentary masterfully conserves the Egyptian revolution for future generations, and thereby confirms the relevance of film for liberation struggles.
Voices of the People
Connectedness and shared ideas collectively characterise today’s popular protests. We can expect to see more such protests as people across the world raise their voices and demand change.
The Legacy of the Obama Administration
During Obama’s tenure America’s global leadership has declined to its lowest ebb leaving some allies to wonder how much they can rely on the US.
Long Game, Hard Choices: The Obama Administration and Democracy in Egypt
The experiences of the Arab Spring cannot be erased and the US will have no choice but to factor in its foreign policy, the popular political aspirations in the region.
Interview – Loretta Napoleoni
Loretta Napoleoni discusses the finances of terror networks, the challenge of countering ISIS, and the attraction of China’s economic model for developing countries.
