Middle East Upheavals and Democratic Transition of Arab Countries

Abstract

Abstract:Prior to the Middle East upheavals, democratic transitions in Arab countries could be roughly divided into three stages, namely, the early constitutional reform, the third wave of democratization and democratic reforms under the impact of the end of the Cold War, and during the democratization process under pressure from the US “Greater Middle East” initiative in the new century. The Middle East upheavals are part of political and social movements that involve the whole Arab world. They have not only some common features, but also huge differences; the long-standing problems in Arab countries in the political, economic and social areas are the fundamental causes of Middle East upheavals. However, in addition to this, they are also affected by the US “Greater Middle East” initiative and other external factors. Democratic reforms and transitions undoubtedly constitute an important part of the Middle East upheavals. Arab countries are currently carrying out democratic reforms, but meanwhile they are...