The 'Fall' of the Arab Spring: Democracy's Challenges and Efforts to Reconstitute the Middle East

Constitutional bargains are crucial for democratic transitions, as this book argues that they can resolve societal, ideological, and political ills and that civil society is the all-important link between constitutional bargaining processes and democratization.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 286 pages
Publication date: 08 February 2024
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Constitutional bargains are considered pivotal in democratic transitions across the globe. However, there has been limited scholarly exploration into the relationship between constitution-making and democratization. This book departs from the conventional focus on autocratic regime breakdowns and emphasizes the significance of inclusive constitution-building for democratization. Drawing from a decade of research on the Arab Spring, Tofigh Maboudi delves into the timing and mechanisms through which constitutional bargains facilitate or hinder democratization. He argues that successful constitutional negotiations have a greater chance of establishing democracy when they address societal, ideological, and political challenges. Maboudi underscores the importance of constitution-making processes, highlighting that constitutions can effectively address these issues through participatory and inclusive approaches.

The Fall of the Arab Spring serves as a powerful illustration of the crucial role played by civil society in linking constitutional bargaining processes to democratization. Civil society organizations, activists, and ordinary citizens have been at the forefront of advocating for democratic reforms, pushing for constitutional changes, and engaging in peaceful protests and demonstrations. Through their efforts, they have facilitated the negotiation of constitutional bargains, ensured inclusivity in the constitution-making process, and promoted democratic values and principles.

In conclusion, this book offers a groundbreaking perspective on the relationship between constitution-making and democratization. By shifting the focus away from autocratic regime breakdowns and towards inclusive constitution-building, Maboudi provides valuable insights into the mechanisms that facilitate or hinder democratic transitions. Through his analysis of the Arab Spring, he demonstrates the importance of civil society in linking constitutional bargaining processes to democratization. This book is a must-read for scholars, policymakers, and activists interested in understanding the dynamics of democratic change and the role of constitutional bargains in shaping political systems.

Weight: 426g
Dimension: 151 x 229 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009010320