2011 CFIS/AIA International Lecture Series
Unrest in the Arab World: A Rising New Arab Generation
Emile A. Nakhleh, Ph.D.
Dinner Talk and Discussion
March 30, 2011 (Wed), LVL, 6:00 – 8:00 PM
Dinner: Egyptian and North African Theme
The toppling of Tunisia's Ben Ali and Egypt’s Mubarak and the mass protests in Libya, Yemen, Bahrain, and elsewhere signal to Arab publics and to the rest of the world that Arab authoritarianism has run its course and that Arab peoples' demands for justice, dignity, an end to regime corruption and repression, and a more hopeful future are changing the nature of Arab politics. This defining moment presents a challenge and an opportunity for our policymakers. Mass protests across the Arab world have come from all walks of life, have not been directed or controlled by Islamists, have focused on bread and butter issues, have demanded an end to dictatorial rule, and more importantly have been peaceful. These youth-driven protests have relied heavily on social media and satellite television such as al-Jazeera to spread their message to their own people and to the outside world. Leaderless, and without an agenda, people in the street said they wanted a better life and the regimes, failing to provide for their peoples' well being, must go. The presentation will discuss the social, economic, demographic, and political factors that are driving the current upheaval in the Arab world and how the US could reach out to legitimate elites and civil society communities.
Dr. Emile Nakhleh is currently a consultant for different US Government entities on political Islam, radicalization, Muslim world engagement, and the Middle East. Before retiring from the US Government as a Senior Intelligence Service Officer, he was a senior analyst and director of political Islam globally and of regional analysis in the Middle East. Prior to his government service, Dr. Nakhleh was a college professor for 26 years. He is the author of numerous books and articles including A Necessary Engagement: Reinventing America’s Relations with the Muslim World, “Intelligence Sharing and Cooperation: Opportunities and Pitfalls,” and “Moderates Redefined: How to Deal with Political Islam.” He is currently working on a book for Indiana University Press titled Arab Islam and Politics: Engaging Partners for a New U.S. Foreign Policy.
Dinner Menu: Baba Ganoush with Pita Toast Points, Crunchy Cabbage with a Melon Wedge, Lemon Sorbet, Egyptian Beef Stew in a Squash Bowl, Ful Mudammas, Pita Bread, Date and Almond Tart, Coffee or Tea, a complimentary glass of wine.
The dinner took place at La Vida Llena CARTER HALL (10501 Lagrima de Oro Rd. NE).