Arab Authoritarianism, Arab Uprisings, and the Future

Abstract

Arab Authoritarianism, Arab Uprisings, and the Future Saliba Sarsar (bio) Authoritarianism–a form of government that favors a strong chief executive; a limited separation of power; reduced rule of law; constrained voting; and weak pluralism–is alive and well in many Arab countries. Their transitions to democracy remain stalled.1 This article will examine this reality by first distinguishing between authoritarian regimes and democratic rule, second by examining three of the main causes of the Arab uprisings during the 2010-2020 period, and third by suggesting a more promising future in ruler-ruled relationships in Arab countries. Authoritarian Regimes versus Democratic Rule In authoritarian regimes, a single leader, usually supported by a small elite group, has wide control over state institutions and its processes. Constitutions are followed to serve and secure the governing body, not challenge it.2 The judiciary is present but there is no guarantee that the rule of law is applied in [End Page 121] an equitable and impartial manner. Legislatures or parliaments, if they exist at all, are more likely limited to have advisory and ceremonial functions, hardly impacting their governments' crucial decisions. Political rivals, potential or otherwise, are commonly neutralized. Opposition parties and movements rarely have wide latitude to cause major changes in policies. Civil liberties and political rights are restricted, and the public has little to no influence on state decisions. While elections are not always free or fair, they are held regularly for presidents and national parliaments. The executive branch closely monitors the status of election districts and those running for office to ensure results are always in its favor. Pluralism that makes room for citizens' differing choices–cultural, economic, political, religious, and social–and for inclusion is not fully embraced. Obviously, not all authoritarian states are alike. Two main regime types are monarchies and republics. In the context of the Arab Middle East, while the former is best illustrated by the presence of a king, sultan, emir, or sheikh, the latter is demonstrated by a president or prime minister.3 Both types have a monopoly on the instruments or mechanisms of military and financial power structures. In monarchies, political tenure is normally secured through heredity and lasts for life. In a presidential republic, acquisition of power is reached through the avenue of a political party win or a military overthrow of government. Political tenure is or becomes prescribed by the constitution but sometimes is extended through controlled elections or constitutional means. This occurred in Egypt in 2019 when the constitution was amended to prolong the tenure of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and ensure his consolidation of power. If a major leadership change is to happen before its due time, it results mostly from the abdication, overthrow, assassination, or death of the king or president. Arab monarchies are found in Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Morocco, Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirates. Among the Arab authoritarian republics are those found in Egypt and Syria. In contrast, democracy enables citizens to utilize their public potential through civil liberties and political rights. It gives individuals space to practice their freedoms–political, religious, social, and economic. Citizens are empowered through voting, joining of political organizations, and holding public office. Their voice matters, as popular consent is a central element to [End Page 122] the legitimacy of rule. Essential attributes of a democracy are well-functioning legislatures, independent judiciaries, and a free media. It is suggested that "the more that people are free to govern and actualize themselves, the more democratic they become."4 The more that their democratic participation and human rights are respected, the more dignified they feel.5 Arab Countries and Arab Springs While Arab countries have engaged over the years in various efforts at liberalization or political reform toward good governance, political accountability, and transparency, which are among the key elements of democracy, these have been inconsistent or weak at best. In his evaluation of political reform in Arab countries two years prior to the Arab Spring, Marwan Muasher wrote: Though ad hoc programs to expand certain political freedoms had been undertaken here and there, no Arab country could claim a systematic process of political reform that would encourage the kind of...