Hard-headed realism is replacing the euphoria of the Arab spring. The Arab world’s new policymakers face the double challenge of satisfying popular pressure for democratic governance and greater accountability, while introducing rigorous reforms to open markets and become more competitive.
There is also a pressing need for new security thinking in the region, with both the EU and NATO being looked to as sources of stability. Has the EU begun to shape a new Mediterranean strategy – spanning not just economic cooperation but also support to home-grown democratic reform, security and even increased immigration? Since aid alone can not create the new jobs needed to give the youthful populations of Arab countries a worthwhile future, what can the EU and national policymakers in Europe do to help kick-start the Arab economies and create substantial employment opportunities? Is Europe doing enough to encourage projects that stimulate trade between the Arab countries, which in the five countries of the Maghreb presently accounts for just 2% of their total foreign trade?
Source de l'article Friends of Europe
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