Showdown in Libya and Beyond

These are heady times in the Middle East! Those revolutions that have toppled down tyrannical regimes in the region these past weeks are cheap (relatively speaking, that is, although lives that have been sacrificed are priceless). And they are quick, although Libya is being difficult. Measures currently in place against the Qaddafi regime may prove effective, but my money is on those rebellious military personnel defecting to the opposition and boldly building a provisional government in Benghazi, not too far from Tripoli. One should not discount tyrannicide as well, despite a NY Times article about problems that a power vacuum may create in the eventuality that Qaddafi is forced to leave. I say anything is better than what Libyans have been dealing with these past 40 years.

Foreign policy analysts and experts are being challenged to come up with a new policy towards the Middle East. There cannot be one, as conditions relative to our national interests and theirs vary from regime to regime. Whatever policy we adopt, these four -- 1) education; 2) religious liberty; 3) equal rights for women; 4) entrepreneurship and property rights -- should be its main pillars. Educating the young ensures a bright future for these countries in terms of producing skilled and intelligent citizenry. Promoting religious liberty allows a spirit of comity and friendship among peoples of different faiths yet ensures the right of everyone to freely worship his or her God. Equal rights for women will make for strong and assertive citizenry of equal and responsible individuals. And entrepreneurship and property rights will inculcate private effort and initiative that are the foundation of national strength and prosperity.