March 30, 2004

Jordan Times

Issues have to be Tackled

Editorial

If the Arab summit moves to Egypt, and does so soon, what can be expected? If the real bone of contention this time was a matter of pro-reform Arab countries versus anti-reform states, why the scurrying to fix another date and venue?
Surely the battle over the controversial issue of political reforms that would focus on human rights, women's rights, democracy and free speech, could not have been brought to a conclusion in the Arab world in a matter of just days. And if, as reported, the Arab foreign ministers were down to the final lines of a blueprint for reform on the eve of the summit's scheduled start, why the abrupt pullout by Tunisia?

Granted, the imposition of reforms by forces outside the Arab world is naturally unwelcomed. However, it is understood that even those countries which were fervently opposed to such reforms had lowered their voices and rhetoric by the time the blueprint was about to be endorsed.

If the rhetoric was for public consumption back home, the cancellation of the summit was a shrill, perplexing message that certainly drowned out the voices of appeasement.

Reform has been on the minds, in the words, and even in the deeds of many in our world. It is not a new concept. But for it to be meaningful, action has to be taken.

If reform is not initiated from within, as some regimes seem to be reluctant to change the current state of affairs, it, probably, will have to be imposed from without. Either way, times are catching up with the Arab world and both proponents and opponents would have had an opportune time in Tunisia to discuss the matter.

Bringing it to an abrupt, unexpected halt serves no one, least of all the peoples of the region.

Now there is talk of meeting again. Several venues were offered. But the venue should not be the issue. Issues should. And if the Arab leaders will meet, they will have to boldly tackle the ailments that have been stymieing progress.