Looking Ahead

Now that Egyptians have had sometime to party for the success of their protests, we need to look ahead. The Military Council has been given full authority and has already dissolved the Egyptians parliament. They are expected to begin modifying the constitution allowing for free and fair elections in the future.

 Meanwhile, Egypt's State TV has officially switched sides. For most of the protests, the State TV, controlled by the government ignored the protesters and their demands. Only when they chanted in the millions did it provide partial coverage. In order to create a more free society, I think it is in Egypt (and every nation's) interest to get rid of state run television (especially in nations that ban other news organizations). 

But the expansion of the Arab fight for democracy isn't ending with Egypt. Tunisia has been changed, and so has Egypt but protests have risen in Algeria, Yemen, Jordan, and Bahrain. As a result of the protests, the Yemeni dictator has vowed not to run for re election and has made economic concessions to the protesters. In Bahrain, incentives were given to help poor families in their economic conditions and in Jordan, the King has removed the prime minister (against whom the protests were targeted) to make way for a new one. The chances of widespread reform in Jordan is unlikely and likewise in Iraq (where small protests have begun). Furthermore, countries like Bahrain can use their oil revenues to alleviate the economic pains that the protesters are feeling. Having said that, Al Jazeera, the only news organization with the best coverage of all the protests that are going on in the middle east (especially in Egypt with 24/7 live feed on their Youtube channel) has started a series called "All Eyes on Algeria" as the most likely place for major reform.

To follow what is happening in Algeria, here's full coverage. Protesters have ignored official curfews and bans of protest by taking to the streets to demand change. Meanwhile, a man has burnt himself to death protesting horrible economic conditions; a burning that started the uprising in Tunisia which led to fiery protests throughout the middle east. In response, police have been cracking down on young protesters who are demanding changes. Let's hope they are successful.

Meanwhile, protesters of the "Green Movement" in Iran that began after the re election of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadenajad are planning new protests that are inspired by the victories in Egypt and Tunisia.

I think that some of my pieces have lacked some good quality recently but I'll get back on it soon!

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