Both if the political processes that have triggered the Arab revolts generate freedom and development as if they end up producing frustration and chaos, Spain geostrategic position is affected in the medium and long term. The unexpected and overwhelming wave against authoritarianism began in 2011 likely will continue touring the Maghreb and Middle East for years, and is not expected that this trend will be reversed. This should lead to a redefinition of Spanish foreign policy towards the region. Spain is very probably the EU country that has more to gain, in relative terms, if Arab transitions lead to greater prosperity, more stability and more democracy.
Published:
Real Instituto Elcano
Author(s):
Haizam Amirah Fernández. Principal investigator of Mediterranean and Arab world, Elcano Royal Institute, and Professor of international relations at the Instituto de Empresa (IE)
