Why democracy took root in Tunisia and not Egypt

By Fareed Zakaria

Of course, it may be too soon to celebrate Tunisia’s success. It faces a youth unemployment rate of about 30 percent. The government is also battling Islamist militants at home, and recent reports have suggested that the Arab world’s only democracy is also its biggest exporter of fighters to join the Islamic State. (This may be because Tunisia is relatively open and its jihadis find that their appeal is limited at home.)

But Tunisia’s success — so far — does suggest that there is nothing in Islam or Arab society that makes it impossible for democracy to take root. As would be true anywhere, you need some favorable conditions, good leadership and perhaps a bit of luck.

Read the Washington Post column

Post by: CNN's Jason Miks

Topics: Fareed's Take

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soundoff (116 Responses)

Giselle

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October 31, 2014 at 12:22 pm | Reply
Giselle

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October 31, 2014 at 12:24 pm | Reply
Giselle

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October 31, 2014 at 12:27 pm | Reply
Zhang

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October 31, 2014 at 12:56 pm | Reply
Giselle

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October 31, 2014 at 2:52 pm | Reply
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