The Arab Spring in Comparative Perspective

Joint Policy Study (SSN-EUROMESCO) March 2015

Senén Florensa, Dtor. *

A few years after the beginning of the so-called Arab Spring, as the processes of transition and the geopolitical balance shifts are fully underway, it is imperative to think about the changes the region is facing and the options ahead. The initial optimism on the democratisation of the Southern Mediterranean region was misplaced, as widespread regional turmoil has brought about very different results in the countries involved. While some are experiencing encouraging processes of transition, others are still trapped in bloodshed and civil war. Tunisia has positively completed its first Parliamentary and Presidential elections following the approval of a new Constitution, while in Syria and Libya violence continues, with tremendous consequences on the populations and undermining peace in the neighbouring countries. The different paths undertaken in the Arab countries since 2011 are indeed a factor of instability, but best practices from the countries in democratic transition represent a positive experience and can be used as examples to shape better policies. Comparative analysis inside and outside the region is useful for tackling vital issues in the transition processes, such as institutional and Security Sector Reform, the relation between religion and the state, and key socio-economic issues.

This publication is the product of the cooperation between two think tank networks, the Strategic Studies Network (SSN) and EuroMeSCo.

* Senén Florensa, Executive President, European Institute of the Mediterranean (IEMed)

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