The New Authoritarianism in the Middle East and North Africa

A study of the dynamism and persistence of authoritarian rule and the prospects for democracy in Egypt, Tunisia, Syria, and Algeria.

“[T]his book is important for our understanding of authoritarian persistence, the political economy of economic liberalization and the current breakdown of authoritarian upgrading in the Middle East.” —Perspectives on Politics

Stephen J. King considers the reasons that international and domestic efforts toward democratization have failed to take hold in the Arab world. Focusing on Egypt, Tunisia, Syria, and Algeria, he suggests that a complex set of variables characterizes authoritarian rule and helps to explain both its dynamism and its persistence. King addresses, but moves beyond, how religion and the strongly patriarchal culture influence state structure, policy configuration, ruling coalitions, and legitimization and privatization strategies. He shows how the transformation of authoritarianism has taken place amid shifting social relations and political institutions and how these changes have affected the lives of millions. Ultimately, King’s forward-thinking analysis offers a way to enhance the prospects for democracy in the Middle East and North Africa.

“This book sets itself apart from other political science research by adopting a critical, evidence-based and systematic approach in analyzing how economic reforms have made authoritarianism stronger in the region, counter to popular beliefs.” —Journal of International Affairs