Describe recent divisions and changes to political systems in the Middle East.(1 point)

Question

Responses

A lack of needed resources, such as food and medical care; social or cultural divisions; trauma from historical or contemporary events; and other factors caused protests.
A lack of needed resources, such as food and medical care; social or cultural divisions; trauma from historical or contemporary events; and other factors caused protests.

The end of apartheid in South Africa, as well as the end of various dictatorships throughout the continent, including in the Sudan, caused a strengthening of political systems.
The end of apartheid in South Africa, as well as the end of various dictatorships throughout the continent, including in the Sudan, caused a strengthening of political systems.

The regime changes of the Arab Spring were caused by division and frustrations with the region’s political systems, which caused protests in the region.
The regime changes of the Arab Spring were caused by division and frustrations with the region’s political systems, which caused protests in the region.

The rulers of various countries have used their power to eliminate term limits, which is a sign of a weak political system.
The rulers of various countries have used their power to eliminate term limits, which is a sign of a weak political system.

Answer 1

In the Middle East, recent divisions and changes in political systems have been significantly influenced by a combination of social, economic, and political factors.

1. Effects of Protests: Widespread protests have been ignited by a lack of essential resources such as food and medical care, exacerbated by social and cultural divisions as well as historical grievances. These protests indicate deep-seated frustrations with the existing political systems and have often called for reforms or regime changes.

2. Arab Spring Legacy: The Arab Spring marked a pivotal moment in the region, where various regimes faced challenges due to internal divisions and widespread popular dissatisfaction. Although some countries experienced regime changes, the outcomes varied widely—ranging from civil wars to relative stability—highlighting the fragility and complexity of political transitions in the region.

3. Concentration of Power: In several countries, rulers have manipulated their political systems to remove term limits or consolidate power, reflecting a systemic weakness. This trend underscores the challenges facing democratic governance and the efforts by existing regimes to maintain control despite popular dissent.

Overall, these factors illustrate the ongoing transformations within the Middle East's political landscape, characterized by tensions between authoritarian governance and public demands for accountability and reform.