Vanguards of Arab spring put to test
Some of the old dictators kept the Islamist militants at bay and, thus provided some protection for religious minorities - though not always enough. The Coptic Christians in Egypt certainly hoped for better things when Mubarak fell and were justifiably upset when things became worse.
When interviewed on the media, the better-educated and more democratically-minded among the 'rebels' have expressed the hope that under a truly democratic government, people of all races, tribes and religions will work peacefully together - but that is usually not what the extremists want.
Christians in Syria, who make up 10% of their population, have been joined by others who have fled persecution in other Arab countries and hoped for refuge. Now, however, they fear what may replace the government as Islamists gain increasing influence over the demonstrations. Christians have been killed and church buildings have been burned down in some cities, such as Homs, indicating growing anti-Christian hostility. Most Syrians assume that Christians are supporters of the government under whom they have been protected and given freedom and are making it difficult for them to 'lie low' and not express support for either side.
The liberal convictions of some those who have headed up the 'Arab spring' will be tested indeed, especially if the rest of the world gives the impression that they are so enthusiastic about the overthrow of the old tyrants that they do not intend to hold the new regimes accountable for what happens to their minorities…
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel.
Comments