Question

A mistrust of Western ideals provides one challenge in supporting civil society on a global scale, especially when supporting transitional democracies in the Middle East. This is because some believe that civil society is a Western concept. Based on the article above, the definition for civil society you developed, and additional research you do on your own, write a 250-word analysis of the challenges to growing civil society and democratic practices in the Middle East (such as resistance to Western ideals, Western funding, and Western involvement in local affairs).

Answer 1

The Middle East was governed by Sultanates, which were several Monarchies that expanded their rule throughout this region. However, this form suffered a series of changes that led to these territories being controlled by Western Powers after the events of the First World War. The interest in these territories was high, as rich oil fields were discovered. This prompted western powers to exercise powerful political and economic influence in order to secure the supply of oil.

Nevertheless, the Western intervention caused major disruption on the Status Quo of these countries, as traditional governing forms were suddenly replaced with pseudo-democracies installed by the Western Powers. This is the main reason for ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, as the majority of locals disregard that these "imported" political systems.

Answer 2

There are several significant issues that arise when we look at the establishment of civil society in the Middle East, as well as other regions of the world that are culturally different to North America.

One of the greatest challenge is simply lack of knowledge. Trying to implement the concept of civil society in a place like this is difficult because people are not familiar with the concept of civil society. Therefore, even if they were not reluctant to try, an educational process would be needed.

A second problem is that some people would be reluctant to try it because they see it as a "western" or "foreign" concept. They might believe that the implementation of it threatens their traditional culture or their political independence. They might also dislike the West for cultural, religious or political reasons.

A final problem that often arises is the fact that Western scholars do not always understand these cultures well. Therefore, they tend to ignore the social rules, hierarchies, etc. that are relevant when it comes to civil society. Ignoring these would most likely result in the creation of a plan that is not sustainable in the cultural context.