LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Autumn 2009

by Oussama Safa

Sir,

Marc Otte is right to call the Middle East complicated, but he misses the point when talking about concrete solutions. If the past five decades have taught us anything, it is that peacemaking is not a matter of quick fixes or ready-made imported solutions. Regional attempts at peacemaking have lost whatever effectiveness they might once have had. It is therefore time to foster bilateral negotiations that will encourage specific accords, within the Syrian-Israeli peace process and elsewhere. The best approach of all is to listen to what the people really want, rather than what the largely discredited élites tell them they want. This will require a serious effort, but it is essential. Even if peace must ultimately be made between states, we cannot expect to create a meaningful peace process until the people buy into it.

The number of non-state actors in the Middle East is one indicator of the intricate web of interests that characterises the region today. Many of these groups have gained legitimacy and representation at democratic polls, and no peacemaking is possible without taking their aspirations and demands into account. So it is a grave mistake to treat them as mere nuisances or spoilers. Otte’s emphasis on the rule of law and due democratic process smacks of disingenuousness, given the European Union’s refusal to acknowledge Hamas’ victory in a ‘clean’ election three years ago. The EU would be well advised to help ensure a fair and democratic election in Palestine in less than six months time, and then be prepared to talk to the winner no matter who that may be.

Initiatives such as the European Neighbourhood Policy and the Union for the Mediterranean are welcome departures from the slow and ineffective Barcelona Process, but they must be accompanied by a clear strategy to engage a cynical Arab public and respond to popular needs in fields that have been hitherto ignored. Developing social policies is one area where Europe could play a key role, while engaging governments in peace-making at the same time. Europe should also emphasise local approaches to peace-building within Middle Eastern societies. ‘Elite’ peace processes are only going to pay off if communities and other grassroot constituencies are prepared for peace.

The ‘old school’ system of demanding superficial reforms no longer suffices. If Europe is serious about playing a central role in the Middle East, it should take its inspiration from what the people of the region truly want. The old adage “Keep it Simple” applies today more than ever.