Analysis: An Eventful Ramadan Lies Ahead

The Moor Next Door writes on how the developing uprisings in the Middle East are “highly likely to increase openings for popular activism,” specifically by sectarian and Islamist factions.  The writer also argues that Ramadan will provide opportunties for organizing large groups for protests as people will be gathering at mosques and community events in major cities.  In countries like Yemen and Syria, the writer argues that Islamist groups may become more confident during Ramadan and take “advantage of opportunities to use religious festivals and sermons to rally their followers against the regime and factional enemies.”  Additionally, there are chances that protests will “intensify” after Friday afternoon prayers. 

However, in some countries there are “political dynamies” that scaled back the aggressiveness of some Islamist groups, like in Tunisia, Egypt and Morocco.  The writer argues that for strategic reasons, some groups may take more “cautious approaches to activism.” 

Reports show that protesters will be active during Ramadan in Syria as many have begun chanting, “Welcome Ramadan, Go Away Bashar!”

  • By: Kal | July 28, 2011 at 11:38 am

    The link is from the Moor Next Door, not the Arabist. :)

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