New Authoritarian Practices in the Middle East and North Africa

The book explores new authoritarian practices in MENA countries following uprisings, including digital surveillance, protest policing, control over judiciary, civil society, and media, and continuities with past practices. It focuses on micro-practices of repression to balance macro-structural explanations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 14 February 2024
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

This comprehensive book delves into the novel authoritarian practices that emerged in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region following the significant uprisings that took place in the area. It explores a range of innovative strategies employed by governments to maintain control and suppress dissent. These practices encompass the use of digital surveillance, including internet, social media, and spyware, to monitor and monitor citizens' activities. The book also highlights the adoption of new protest policing practices, which involve the excessive use of force and repression against peaceful protesters. Furthermore, it discusses the establishment of new forms of control over the judiciary, civil society, and media, which restrict the freedom of expression and undermine democratic institutions. Additionally, the book emphasizes the introduction of new security and communication laws, as well as the declaration of state of emergencies, to further erode civil liberties and consolidate power.

While these authoritarian practices may appear novel, they are not entirely new to the MENA region. The book also highlights continuities with past authoritarian practices, such as intimidation, imprisonment, torture, extrajudicial killing, and ill treatment of dissidents. These practices are used in conjunction with digital mediated practices to suppress dissent and control activists, opposition parties, the judiciary, and the media.

One of the key strengths of this book is its focus on micro-practices of repression. By examining the everyday experiences of individuals and communities affected by these authoritarian practices, the book provides a more nuanced understanding of authoritarian persistence despite widespread social discontent and opposition. It challenges the notion that authoritarianism is solely a result of macro-structural factors, such as economic inequality, political instability, or cultural traditions, and emphasizes the importance of understanding the local context and dynamics of repression.

The book also explores the role of international actors, such as the United States, Europe, and regional organizations, in perpetuating and exacerbating authoritarianism in the MENA region. It argues that these actors often prioritize their own interests, such as stability and resource extraction, over the promotion of democracy and human rights. This contributes to the persistence of authoritarian regimes and the continued suffering of their citizens.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable contribution to the study of authoritarianism in the MENA region. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the new practices and strategies employed by governments to maintain control and suppress dissent. By focusing on micro-practices of repression, the book offers a nuanced understanding of authoritarian persistence and challenges the conventional narratives of authoritarianism. It is a must-read for scholars, policymakers, and activists who are committed to promoting democracy, human rights, and social justice in the MENA region.

Weight: 584g
Dimension: 157 x 234 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474489416