In this article from the Wilson Center, Nadia Oweidat discusses how supporting youth activists could be the future for a safer and more secure MENA.
Here is an exerpt from the end of the piece:
"Western democracies have few options to deal with the authoritarian regimes of MENA, a region whose instability is felt far beyond its borders. Led by short-term interests, Western governments keep supporting the same regimes that, year after year, further erode any possibility for change. They leave violence or exodus as the only options then complain of refugees and terrorists. In reality, creative influencers like Albutairi and his wife, who inspire young people to lead, represent the greatest source of hope. They offer organic, compelling, and often ingenious ways to confront and engage with challenges faced by millions of their peers, presenting real counter-narratives to the absurd ideologies of ISIS and Al Qaeda. No government can compete with their appeal nor replicate their narratives through propaganda. These young minds of MENA must be protected and supported, and the price of violating their rights made too high to pay. Only then can we hope for a safer and more secure MENA for everyone, including its citizens."