Non-Democratic Legitimacy During the Arab Spring: Defending Dictatorship

This book explores the legitimacy of non-democratic rule in the Arab world during the Arab Spring, examining the strategies used by leaders to defend their positions and why some survived while others were overthrown. It also considers the historical roots of apolitical rule in the Arab world and the role of Arab leaders in merging religion with socio-economic benefits.

Format: Hardback
Length: 242 pages
Publication date: 21 September 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This comprehensive book delves into the complex dynamics of non-democratic legitimacy during the Arab Spring, a pivotal period in the region's political landscape. As monarchs and presidents faced mounting pressure to defend their rule, they resorted to various strategies to maintain their grip on power. Some sought to bolster their legitimacy through the embrace of Islam, while others capitalized on the cultural image of paternalism or relied on the flow of welfare benefits to appease their constituents. The author embarks on a historical journey, tracing the roots of apolitical rule in the Arab world, from its Islamic foundations to the role of Arab leaders in merging religion with socio-economic benefits and cosmetic liberalization. Through a meticulous analysis of speeches delivered by leaders of Tunisia, Egypt, Jordan, and Bahrain in response to the Arab Spring, the book sheds light on the weight of their words and the factors that contributed to their survival or downfall. This work not only provides a deep understanding of the dynamics of non-democratic legitimacy but also offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing Arab leaders in the post-Arab Spring era. To engage with the author and delve deeper into their work, you can watch their presentations discussing their publishing experience with Palgrave Macmillan here: https://youtu.be/NfKETFx4sok and their presentation discussing the book itself here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJU6_3M3xyo.

Weight: 452g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031118814
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022