In her article Islamist Parties: Three Kinds of Movements, Tamara Wittes suggests that the movement of Arab states towards an “open political marketplace” will weaken radical Islamism and allow a moderate movement to begin successful democratization of the Arab world. She argues that the state must cultivate “Islamist movements that embrace democratic participation and pluralism” but that democracy itself must be seen as legitimate before democratic Islamist movements can overcome radicalism. However, Wittes’ seems to overlook both the intricate and intertwined nature of Islamist groups, as well as the central ideology of Islamism that may deter the democratization of the Arab world.
Because Islam is the overwhelmingly dominant, and perhaps defining, religion in every Arab state, its importance both as an ideology and a pan-Arab movement cannot be overlooked. Moderate Islamist groups within a state face opposition not only from radical elements in the same state but also from external radical influences. Hezbollah, for example, gains much of its support from Iran, creating an even more hostile environment for democracy. Lebanon, as Wittes mentions, is already a weak state, and Iran could potentially pose a significant security threat. It cannot allow itself to be seen as too “Western” by powerful external Islamic entities, particularly since popular support for Hezbollah within Lebanon is growing. We must question whether or not Wittes’ optimistic support of moderate Islamist groups is possibly an oversimplification of the interconnectedness and power of pan-Islamic movements.
Another obstacle to the Western concept of liberal democracy in the Arab world lies in the very values and nature of Islam. Although many Arab states have been willing to accept democratic procedures, certain aspects of liberal democracy may be seen as contrary to the Islamic belief system. Even in 13th century Al-Andalus after the Reconquista, Muslims debated on whether or not they could live under Christian rule and still live a pious life. This debate still exists with regards to the possibility of liberal democracy in the Arab world—which would necessarily be secular. Is it realistic that the majority of Muslims would be able to accept a secular state with Western democracy? Or is Wittes overestimating the appeal of full Western democratization for even moderate Islamists?
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2 comments:
I do agree, she is alittle optimistic, because Islam is really not only a religion, its involved with the state and its a way of life. Islam have existed in those nations for so long, changes will definately be hard to come. In the Islamic states, there still are an overwhelming amount of people who are totally against secularity and mentions of Democratic principles. The ideals of the West are far too different from the Islamic ideologies. I am curious as to see if change will ever happen, or if it does, how will it happen? Will it be by force, war and violence? can islamic states ever become the true western idea of a democratic state? wouldn't it be fine if in the future they just adapt some western ideas but maintian the already present ideals? Any ideas? How will the islamic states develop in this globalized world?
One of the overarching questions of the article was the ability for Islamic sates to democratize. I took a class called "Politics of Third World" last spring and we discussed the inability for democracy to flourish in Islamic states. Part of the reason is due to cultural reasons and the article did state how egalitarian values may be unfavorable in such societies because of its emphasis on hierarchy and patriarchy.
The fact that some Islamic groups are willing to utilize the political process to create change is a step in the right direction if they wish to transform their state into some form of democracy or liberal state. However, the everlasting question about culture comes to mind because in changing the political system you also threaten cultural or religious values whereby the separation of church and state must follow. So is it possible to come to a middle ground?
I think Islamic states need to find what that middle ground is or at least try to adapt with modernization and contemporary politics. Would that be possible though? If Islamic values and principles are undermined?
Crazzzzy :)
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