Way of the future
By
Amr Elchoubaki
Demonstrations stream through the streets of European capitals supporting Arab rights with a vehemence that surpasses the Arabs own defence of their causes. Europe possesses a vigour from which we are disconnected and removed. The socio-political setting in Arab countries not only discourages political vitality, it stifles it.
An interesting feature of the recent anti-globalisation protests in Europe is that they not only defend causes that may seem idealistic or intangible but also tackle urgent and political international issues. The demonstrators who appeared in the streets of Florence a few weeks ago railed against capitalist hegemony. But they also spoke out against Washington's intentions towards Iraq and other countries.
As US hegemony expands the more forcefully anti- globalisation campaigners launch an organised attempt to debunk its methods and expose its true aims. A global link is developing between politics and economy. Yet another link is developing among the forces that fight the exploitation brought about by globalisation.
As Washington's domination becomes ever more menacing forms of global resistance are solidifying, bringing together the many political groups concerned with international justice. This new phenomena poses a challenge to mainstream politics, both the right and left, in Europe and the Arab world. The anti- globalisation campaign is moving ahead, gaining ground by the day. And it may turn out to be the way of the future.
* This week's Soapbox speaker is an analyst at Al-Ahram Centre for Political and Strategic Studies.
