Arab Solutions to Arab Problems: A Critical Appraisal
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This study seeks to answer the following research questions: What internal and external factors contribute to the persistent conflicts in Arab states, and to what extent can indigenous regional efforts lead to sustainable peace? Data for this study were collected from secondary sources, while content analysis was used for the analysis. The concept of "Arab solutions to Arab problems" is situated within the context of the growing regionalist argument among Arab states to resolve conflicts and other internal challenges without foreign assistance. This approach in finding solutions to the Arab problems is situated within the realist political strategy rooted in sovereignty, survival and power competition. It is argued that socio-economic and political inequality, long standing animosity among competing groups over state resources and power among others have influenced conflict. Furthermore, the influence of external factors often intersects with internal dynamics such as geopolitical interests, foreign interventions, economic pressures, and ideological exports, strategically leading to internal division among the competing groups within Arab nations. Lastly, this study recommends, among others things, that given the present conflict situation in many Arab nations, Arab solutions remain a determining factor in solving Arab problems.
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