Changing Dynamics in Egypt and Jordan

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In The Media

Changing Dynamics in Egypt and Jordan

Important first steps toward political transformation are occurring throughout the Arab world, as evidenced by the trial of deposed Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak and the amendments proposed for the Jordanian constitution.

By Marwan Muasher

Published on Aug 15, 2011

Source: BBC's Impact

Speaking on BBC’s Impact, Marwan Muasher explained that the trial of deposed Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak is a rare and important event in the Arab world. With many political and legal processes still in flux in the region, Marwan Muasher argued that “it is important to come up with a process where the rule of law is supreme.”

Egyptians are eager to move away from the Mubarak regime to a new system, but establishing due process during this transformation is critical. According to Muasher, “it is important not just for Egypt but as a precedent for the rest of the Arab world.”

Turning to Jordan, Muasher added that the recently proposed constitutional amendments represent a vital first step, but “are not the end of the road.” Elected governments are going to take some time to materialize in Jordan. In the meantime, Muasher concluded, the monarchy must engage in serious efforts to restore the credibility gap between itself and the people.

About the Author

Marwan Muasher

Vice President for Studies

Marwan Muasher is vice president for studies at Carnegie, where he oversees research in Washington and Beirut on the Middle East. Muasher served as foreign minister (2002–2004) and deputy prime minister (2004–2005) of Jordan, and his career has spanned the areas of diplomacy, development, civil society, and communications.

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Carnegie does not take institutional positions on public policy issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of Carnegie, its staff, or its trustees.

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