The crucial role of intellectuals – especially at a time as tumultuous as some Arab societies are currently undergoing – is to provide models for critical thinking and reflection on the conditions, challenges and aspirations of their own societies.
The diplomatic and political elites of Iran and Turkey give the impression that they are keen to adopt some form of leading role in the transformation processes of the Arab Spring. But how will their messages be received in the region?
The inconsistent reaction of the UN Security Council to the ongoing Syria crisis reveals several major underlying tensions which will not be quickly resolved
Local financiers investing in local potential are needed everywhere. But in Arab societies, what we need above all is people who appreciate the importance of the free exchange of ideas and dialogue with others who do not share one’s opinion.
