Oasis in Tunisia

In the third episode of Julian Assange’s talk show, The World Tomorrow, Assange interviewed the new president of Tunisia, Moncef Marzouki.  They discussed a variety of subjects ranging from the Arab Spring and its implications, to the two men’s struggle in solitary confinement.  

During the interview Moncef talked about is attitude towards secret services in Arab countries and his plans to reform Tunisia’s.  As a victim of “psychological torture” Moncef has proposed to end all forms of unlawful interrogation techniques or techniques and strategies that would violate or even be a consideration for the violation of human rights.  A human rights activist himself, Moncef also spoke of greater transparency in governments and their organizations like the secret police.  

As I watched the interview I found Moncef to be a very captivating speaker whose thoughts and opinion carry great value.  When asked about what he would do with those that unlawfully imprisoned him Moncef responded that he is willing to let the issue go and focus his attentions on progress and reform in Tunisia.  Moncef made an interesting comment regarding his decision to not support the opposition in Syria.  However he noted that he does not necessarily support Bashar al-Assad either, his belief is that there should be a similar power transfer to the one that was in Yemen, in which the president signed over power and an election was held. 

The interview concluded with Moncef stating that he will struggle to balance his position as head of state and obligation as a human rights activist but that there is a future for democracy in Tunisia.  So what’s next for Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, and Syria?  Can these countries form stable democracies and advance the needs of their peoples?  Will the ideas and revolutions change the world tomorrow?