Geostrategic Media Political Commentary, Analysis, Security, Defense
Eng. Saleem Al Batayneh
The Arab world finds itself at a critical juncture, with its people expressing disillusionment and longing for a different path forward. The yearning for colonialism, guardianship, and mandate is not a desire for subjugation, but rather a desperate plea for relief from the oppressive regimes, corruption, and societal decay that have plagued the region. While the term “colonialism” carries negative connotations, it symbolizes a longing for stability, development, and justice that seems increasingly unattainable under current circumstances. The Arab peoples’ calls for change reflect their profound frustration and the dire need for transformative action.
The generations that fought against colonialism believed that their liberation would lead them to a future filled with progress, freedom, and justice. However, their aspirations were dashed by oppressive dictatorships that prioritized self-interest over the well-being of their people and nations. The ruling regimes, detached from their constituents, created totalitarian states that monopolized power and resources while fostering corruption and tyranny. The resulting suppression of freedoms and the erosion of trust between rulers and their people deepened the crisis.
To retain control, these dictatorships fused the security apparatus with political dominance. This fusion enabled them to exercise hegemony while repressing dissenting voices. The security mind became a tool of control, stifling any opposition and maintaining the status quo. Consequently, the Arab peoples found themselves trapped in a cycle of injustice and oppression that stifled their hopes for a better future.
Today, the majority of Arab peoples are oppressed, marginalized, and disempowered. Their nations have become pawns, subject to external forces and decisions that shape their destinies. Dependency has reduced Arab countries to mere mini-states, implementing agendas dictated by others. Iraq, Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, Libya, and Yemen all suffer from varying degrees of internal strife, with their sovereignty and futures hanging in the balance.
In this context, it is understandable why many Arab people entertain the unthinkable notion of the return of colonialism, guardianship, or mandate. This yearning for external intervention is not rooted in a love for foreign rule but rather a desperate desire for relief from the disastrous conditions in which they find themselves. The call for guardianship, as witnessed when Lebanese citizens appealed to French President Macron, exemplifies the extent of frustration and anxiety permeating Arab societies.
It is important to note that the colonial powers, burdened with their own challenges, would not heed these calls even if they were made. The failed states of the Arab world, depleted of resources and with uncertain futures, pose insurmountable burdens. The responsibility for the tragic state of affairs lies largely with Arab officials who have betrayed their people and tarnished the reputation of their homelands. The erosion of trust between the ruled and the rulers has led to widespread disbelief and disillusionment.
The Arab world stands at a crossroads, grappling with a profound crisis of governance, corruption, and societal decay. The longing for colonialism, guardianship, and mandate is not a genuine desire for subjugation, but a desperate cry for change. It is a manifestation of the frustration and disenchantment resulting from oppressive regimes and the erosion of trust. To address this crisis, Arab leaders must recognize the urgent need for transformative action, restoring faith in governance, and creating a future that offers hope for their people. Only then can the Arab world break free from its current cycle of despair and embark on a path towards genuine progress, freedom, and justice.
Eng. Al Batayneh was a Jordanian member of parliament.
