Editorial: Rafsanjani Opposes Democracy in the Middle East

Editorial: Rafsanjani Blasts Mideast Plan - June 27, 2004. What you read here is the official view of the U.S. government. Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, former President of Iran and current head of the Expediency Discernment Council, which mediates disputes between the Parliament and the Guardian Council, has made clear his opposition to democratic reforms in the Middle East, similar to other Iranian officials. Mr. Rafsanjani claims that the Middle East plan initiated by the U.S. is a major challenge for Iran, as Americans intend to impose their culture and democracy on the region. President George W. Bush's insistence that the people of the Middle East have the right to live in freedom poses a significant challenge for the unelected clerical rulers in Iran. However, Mr. Bush states that the U.S. has no interest in forcing other countries to adopt the American model, adding, "I fully understand that a free society in the Middle East must reflect the culture and traditions of its people, not America." Mr. Bush asserts that freedom cannot be imposed from outside: "But free nations can, and must, ally themselves with reformers, wherever they are, and with reforms, wherever they occur. I fully know that democratization is not the same as Westernization. Nations with different characteristics, such as Romania, the Philippines, Nicaragua, Senegal, and Turkey, show that freedom takes various forms around the world, and new freedoms can find a dignified place amid ancient traditions. Democratic governments in the Middle East will reflect their own cultures and traditions." Mr. Bush is not the only one speaking about the need for democracy and reforms. Political and business leaders from across the Middle East have participated in conferences in Alexandria, Istanbul, Sana'a, and Aqaba to discuss modernization and reforms and emphasize political, economic, and social transformation. Now, Abd al-Wahid Belqaziz, Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Conference, has raised his voice. He states that the time has come for the Islamic world to take a firm stance on democracy. Belqaziz expresses regret over the poor track record of Islamic countries on issues ranging from education and women's rights to economic development and calls for a civilized self-examination aimed at implementing internal reforms and reviving its democratic, political, social, and economic institutions. President Bush has pledged to assist those seeking change. He says, "We are committed to helping them in their quest for a freer and richer future. We will fulfill this commitment." What you read here is the official view of the U.S. government.