Understanding Democracy and Islamic Movements in the Arab World
The recent episode of Al Jazeera's “Mawazine” program delves into the complex relationship between democracy and Islamic movements, particularly in the context of the Arab Spring. Abdul-Hay Youssef, Dean of the “Ansar al-Nabi” Academy, categorizes government systems into three types: the Shura system rooted in Islamic law, authoritarian regimes, and democratic systems of Western origin. He argues that while the Shura system is not prevalent today, the authoritarian model suppresses freedoms, contrasting sharply with the democratic ideal, which he describes as the rule of the people.
The program highlights the evolving stance of Islamic movements towards democracy. Jalal Al-Wargi, a researcher in Islamic affairs, notes a significant shift from outright rejection to a more accepting view of democratic principles. Historically, many Islamists viewed democracy as contradictory to divine sovereignty. However, prominent figures such as Hassan al-Turabi, Youssef al-Qaradawi, and Rashid al-Ghannouchi have advocated for democratic engagement, marking a pivotal change in perspective.
Evaluating the Experiences of Islamic Movements Post-Arab Spring
The discussion also evaluates the performance of Islamic movements that gained power following the Arab Spring. Al-Wargi asserts that these movements in countries like Egypt, Tunisia, and Morocco have shown a commitment to the democratic process, viewing it as essential for stability and coexistence. Conversely, Jamal Sultan, an expert on Islamic movements, critiques their governance experiences, suggesting that they have not successfully implemented democratic principles and have made significant mistakes in practice.
Sultan emphasizes that the organizational structure of groups like the Muslim Brotherhood has hindered effective governance, citing the downfall of former Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi as a case in point. He argues that the West may not favor genuine democracy in Arab nations, as it would empower citizens to govern and manage their resources independently.
