Rethinking Democratic Building to Address Political Polarization in the MENA Region

The Arab Spring united diverse segments of society across the MENA region in a shared call for dignity, freedom, and an end to corruption. However, as initial demands for democracy gave way to complex debates over constitutional and political structures, this consensus splintered, leading to deep political polarization. In many cases, what began as movements for collective liberation transformed into struggles over governance models and ideological dominance, ultimately resulting in severe political crises, including military coups, states of emergency, and constitutional deadlock.
This panel will examine the root causes and consequences of this polarization, exploring how democratic aspirations devolved into factionalism and examining the challenges of building inclusive democracies amid ideological divides. Panelists will discuss case studies from MENA region countries, analyzing how their unique socio-political landscape shaped their trajectory from unity to division. Key themes include the post-conflict democratic building, the challenges of balancing secular and religious identities, and the impact of economic inequality on democratic cohesion.
Drawing from these experiences, the session will propose innovative approaches to democratic building that prioritize inclusivity, constitutional adaptability, and dialogue-driven conflict resolution. The goal is to identify pathways that can reconcile competing political visions, strengthen institutions, and create a sustainable foundation for democracy in a region marked by complex social and political realities.