The Democratization of Middle East

Paper Summary:

This paper, written from a religious Islamic perspective, explores how diversity represents a major roadblock to achieving peace and harmony in the Middle East. The writer first describes the Muslim outlook on cultural diversity, as opposed to Christianity. The paper then highlights the different religious outlooks and sects within Islam. Several obstacles to establishing democracy in the Middle East are illustrated, with an emphasis on the suppression of minorities in the region. The author concludes citing Islamic concerns about democratization in Israel.

From the Paper:

"The Sunni is the largest group of the Islamic faith, with nearly 90% of all Muslims subscribing to this practice (Ibrahim, p. 323-369). The Kharawaj is another major political force in the Islamic world. When the prophet Muhammad died he had no sons to inherit leadership. The primary point of contention between these two groups is how to decide the leadership succession. The Kharawaj reject the Sunni idea that bloodlines are the most important factor, but feel that the right to rule is divinely granted."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Farques, P. "Demographic Islamization: Non-Muslims in Muslim countries." SAIS Review, vol.21, no.2, Summer-Fall 2001.
• Ibrahim, Saad .Sects, Ethnicity, and Minority Groups in the Arab World. Cairo: Ibn Khaldoun Center, 1994.
• Mazhar, U. Living in Harmony with Religious Diversity: Islamic Perspective . Paper prepared For "Parallel Conference of Forum for Future"-Bahrain Conference. November 7, 2005.

More papers on The Democratization of Middle East:

• Research Paper # 95119 : "The US and the Middle East"
• Term Paper # 149907 : "The Dream of Democracy in the Middle East"
• Term Paper # 120626 : "Democracy in the Middle East"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: