Middle East in Transition

Objectives Identify causes of the Arab Spring. Explore the role of social media in the uprising. Identify the connection to other protests in the region. Consider the US response to the events. Consider the potential effects of the protests on democracy and stability in the Middle East. Research countries still fighting as a result of the Arab Spring

Warm up What is a revolution? an overthrow and the thorough replacement of an established government or political system by the people governed. Why is it important to learn about the Arab Spring revolutions? Support humanity, democracy, better life Exciting Appreciate risks taken US ties to region Youth revolt

What Caused the Protests? Economic Conditions High unemployment Low minimum wages Inflation (food prices) Class stratification Political Conditions No democratic values! Lack voice in govt No free speech/assembly Police brutality/corruption

What Caused the Protests?

Movements Egypt Tunisia Algeria Jordan Oman Yemen Sudan Iraq Bahrain Libya Kuwait Morocco Lebanon Iran Syria

Role of Social Media Facebook,Twitter, YouTube Mohamed Bouazizi “We are all Khaled Said” Jan 25 th “Day of Rage” protest Sped up pace of revolution Organize ppl Transmit info Gather support Media Blackout Underground tech mvmt Open pic for great paper on topic!

US Interests Economic Ties Grain (wheat) for cotton Oil Political Ties “Double Bind” Authoritarian but stabilize volatile region Regional Stability “Productive instability” – short term chaos good for long term Democratic change? Rise Political Islam?

ACTIVITY Working in groups explore the ongoing tensions in several Arab Spring countries, be prepared to present on your particular country to your group

Closure How has media played a role in the Arab Spring uprisings? Were the uprisings justified? Why or why not?