November 2013

Hoping for an orderly retreat of Ennahda to avoid a return to the old regime
by Wilhelm Langthaler
Chokri Belaid
Tunisia was the starting point of the Arab peoples’ revolt. In the central countries of Egypt and Syria, however, the movement is threatened to subside in repression and violence. Again, it is Tunisia, which gives grounds for hope: Ennahda could withdraw from the government without violence paving the way for early elections. Thus the democratic gains could be saved from the threat of a counter-revolution on behalf of the old elites.
Global stalemate acknowledged
by Wilhelm Langthaler
Iran: crude production and consumption
The beginning détente between the US and Iran is opening a new chapter of global relations. It is not only a game changer in the Syrian arena but will prompt a re-configuration of the Middle East’s setup. Ultimately it indicates another step towards the multi-polar world – but a modest one confirming US supremacy with indirect rule.