The future of reform in Oman. Issue 1 (2nd January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Said, Basma Mubarak
• Is Part Of: Contemporary Arab affairs. Volume 9:Issue 1(2016)
• Page Start: 49
• Page End: 67
• Publication Date: 2016-01-02
• Subjects: Arab Spring -- Oman -- Omani Spring -- Sultan Qaboos -- reform -- democratic transition; Arab countries -- Periodicals; Arab countries -- Politics and government -- Periodicals; 909.0974927
• DOI: 10.1080/17550912.2015.1118913
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1755-0912

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Oman is currently experiencing a social and political crisis emanating from issues created by the declining health of Sultan Qaboos, as well as fundamental problems with the nature of the state's regime. Oman is a country renowned for its progressive and modern outlook, but in the last decade it has become increasingly alienated from its ruling authority. During the Omani Spring of 2011 popular protests took place demanding political change and greater rights, freedoms and improved living standards. Sultan Qaboos wisely responded to these protests with a package of reforms including some to the constitution and judicial institutions, but these have been thwarted by repressive measures by the security services and other agencies. More than four years on, Oman faces many challenges in launching a process of comprehensive reform that would lead to a transition to democracy and limited constitutional rule.