| The U.S. support of democracy overseas often leads to unexpected results. |
| The paradox of American policy in the Middle East — promoting democracy on the assumption it will bring countries closer to the West — is that almost everywhere there are free elections, the American-backed side tends to lose.
Arab liberals who have embraced America continue to see their influence fade in the region, as more conservative and Islamist forces continue to rise, [Turki al-Rasheed, a Saudi reformer] said. Voters invariably frown on strength coming from abroad, he said; the only legitimate sources of strength any Arab politician can turn to is based on either tribal power or religious ties. Source: "Memo From Dubai - U.S. Backs Free Elections, Only to See Allies Lose" By HASSAN M. FATTAH - NY Times - August 10, 2007 |
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