Most recent articles by Thomas Demmelhuber
-
Arabian PeninsulaDawn of a new era in the Gulf
Political scientist Sebastian Sons describes in his new book how societies on the Arabian Peninsula are undergoing multiple changes simultaneously as they search for a new identity
-
Regional perspectives on the Gaza warThe Middle East conflict is back
In recent years the Israeli-Palestinian conflict had gradually become uncoupled from the other lines of conflict in the Middle East. This "encapsulation of the Middle East conflict" may be off the table for now, but it does nothing to change the parameters of the larger regional struggle for dominance
-
Repression and legitimation in EgyptThe world as Sisi sees it
A policy formula that only recognises two distinctions – those who are "for the regime" and those who are "against the regime", with the latter arguably grouped under the heading "potential terrorists" – is leading to widespread human rights violations and the persecution of those who hold different political views. A commentary by Thomas Demmelhuber
-
After the Ousting Mohammed MorsiEgypt on the Brink of Collapse?
Following the military coup on 3 July, institutional order in Egypt is teetering on the brink while most of the country's political elite stand by and watch. Thomas Demmelhuber analyses the situation
-
The Egyptian President's Power GainMorsi Cannot Govern Against His People
When Mohammed Morsi assumed his presidential duties six months ago, he was derided as a "spare tyre". Now Time Magazine is running a front-page story on the man it calls "the most important man in the Middle East". But despite his burgeoning power, Morsi will not be able to govern in a way that ignores the interests and concerns of a highly politicised nation. Commentary by Thomas Demmelhuber
-
Presidential Elections in EgyptA Duel That Nobody Wanted
The Egyptian presidential poll enters its second phase: On 16 and 17 June Egyptians must decide between the rather colourless and uncharismatic Islamist Mohamed Mursi and Ahmed Shafik, an overt representative of the old regime. An analysis by Thomas Demmelhuber
-
Egypt a Year after the Military Takeover of PowerFrom a Secular Uprising to a Muslim Democracy?
The fundamental change that took place in Egypt in 2011 is considered a turning point in history. Where is the country heading politically? What role will religion play in the Egyptian state and society in the future? By Thomas Demmelhuber
-
Political Upheaval in EgyptThe Mubarak System without Mubarak
Mubarak may be gone, but the remaining elites will try to use his structural and political heritage to suit themselves, ensuring that Egypt's road to democracy will be a difficult and open-ended one. By Thomas Demmelhuber