Rebranding the Arab Spring

Fall is rapidly approaching, yet popular revolutions in the Middle East and Africa continue, notably in Syria, and of course, Libya. Words have meaning and importance, and as these historical events persist, it makes sense to have a moniker that more accurate describes their impact. Some have suggested the “Arab Transition.” Others note the fact that not all the countries undergoing -- or that will undergo -- these rapid transitions of governance are Arab.

I recently heard a well-regarded DOD communications expert discuss the rebranding of the Arab Spring. He likened it to an awakening and suggested that this term be adopted. Awakening would also apply to non-Arab countries whose populations might be in a pre-revolution phase, but have yet to act. He even mentioned the potential energy in China for this sort of mass movement. Regardless, I’d strongly discourage use of the term “Awakening,” because it plays right into the hands of al Qaeda. In this 2005 Long War Journal article, one can see that the Awakening refers to the first phase of AQ’s seven phase strategy to create an Islamic caliphate. By the way, don't the rest of the phases read like an eerily accurate prediction of recent history? So what is a more appropriate name for the ongoing revolutions? Or does it even matter?

The opinions and views expressed in this post are those of the author alone and are presented in his personal capacity. They do not necessarily represent the views of U.S. Department of Defense, the US Navy, or any other agency.