A clear way forward

By Mohsen Zahran

---

The recently released Arab Human Development Report 2004 bravely addresses the issue of transparency in Arab societies and attempts to evaluate the state of freedom and governance in the Arab world. It debates the post-11 September crisis of freedom and democracy, focussing on structural obstacles to liberty at the dawn of the third millennium.

The report arrived at its vision by examining the various options for the future which it lists as "impending ruin", "a human flourishing" or a middle way between the two: reform dictated from abroad. The report defines the reform of Arab societal structures as guaranteeing freedom through internal reform along with the need to preserve the peaceful and genuine rotation of power in Arab countries through the provision of just rule achieved by taking the path of a "humanist awakening".

The report seeks to generate a society-wide debate within Arab countries. The correct way to deal with attempts at foreign intervention is to challenge Arab weakness, and to generate vitality capable of transforming aspirations into reality.

Despite certain gaps in the report, there can be no doubt that it contains well-researched and realistic data and presents an accurate and rigorous analysis distinguished by logical and methodical evaluation of events. Its conclusions are solid, aware and focussed. The current situation is difficult, testing and terrifying: we must develop and change. It is our duty to be decisive and choose a course that offers us freedom and security, guarantees rights and order and implants values of justice and peace. Only then will we achieve genuine and deserved comprehensive Arab human development.

This week's Soapbox speaker is former director of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and professor of planning at Alexandria University.