The Libyan Paradox

admin — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 13:38:13 +0000

The Libyan Paradox

SWJ friend Major Steven Brothers, who authored Considerations on Libya for SWJ, wrote a book review on Louis Martinez's The Libyan Paradox over at ASMEA (Association for the Study of the Middle East and Africa).

BLUF. Conventional wisdom argues that the effects of the sanctions—which included skyrocketing inflation, political unrest and an Islamic insurgency—forced the Gaddafi regime to "convert" from a "rogue terrorist state" to a partner in the "War on Terror." Martinez addresses this in his introduction and states that his purpose is to show the reader how the "evolution" of the regime (notice he does not use the word "reformation") occurred as a result of the sanctions and a necessity to face resulting, unforeseen threats. He also wants to show the reader how—though it may appear that real reforms have taken place—the Libyan regime may not have changed much at all.

For those trying to gain a better understanding of Libya, Steven's review and Louis's book is a good start.

admin Wed, 03/23/2011 - 9:38am