Al-Wefaq and the February 14 uprising: Islam, nationalism and democracy – the Shici-Bahraini discourse. Issue 6 (1st November 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Machlis, Elisheva
• Is Part Of: Middle Eastern studies. Volume 52:Issue 6(2016)
• Page Start: 978
• Page End: 995
• Publication Date: 2016-11-01
• Subjects: Bahrain -- al-Wefaq -- nationalism -- democracy -- sectarianism -- Islam -- Iraq -- Iran -- Muslim Brotherhood -- women -- Arab Spring; Middle East -- Periodicals; Moyen-Orient -- Périodiques; 956.005
• DOI: 10.1080/00263206.2016.1198327
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0026-3206

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Al-Wefaq's complex nature led to ambiguity over the relationship between religion and politics and over the balance between Islamic ecumenism and sectarianism. While the Shi c i uprising presented a national and democratic agenda, questions remain over the party's full commitment to democracy and its loyalty to the national framework in the current regional turmoil with the empowerment of Shi c is and disintegration of nation-states. There could be a discrepancy between the declared aims of an oppositional movement and its actions once it assumes power. The problematic legacy of minority–majority relations in Bahrain, the country's political culture and the difficult example of post-2003 Iraq, are further barriers to advancing full democracy. If the Shi c i majority gains power the party may become less democratic and more sectarian. Yet, it will also have much to lose given Bahrain's strategic alliance with the US and its position as a financial services hub in the region.