The exercise of power and public authority in the Arab World has always been defined by small groups of men—usually anchored in military establishments—who seized and sat in the seats of power.
The dark, sick heart of 2015 is the narrowing space across the entire Middle East for citizens to express themselves freely on issues that matter to them and their families.
Defeating despotism is only one goal of the Second Arab Awakening. The region must also embrace political, cultural, and religious pluralism, good governance, the rule of law, and inclusive economic growth.
