The Difficulties of North African Reform

The backlash against President Saied's move to extend his power grab could spur violent protests and delay needed economic reforms.

Senior Middle East and North Africa Analyst Emily Hawthorne breaks down the latest developments in the dispute over Western Sahara and what’s at stake.

The ruling PJD's loss of 112 parliamentary seats reflects Moroccans’ economic frustrations, as well as the waning popularity of Islamist politics in the country.

The uncertainty created by an extended period of executive authority will exacerbate the North African country’s economic and political crises.

Domestic support and promised foreign aid will enable President Saied to make further disruptive moves as he sees fit.

President Saied’s move to freeze parliament risks further destabilizing the already cash-strapped and COVID-ridden country.

If Rabat makes more controversial statements, tensions with Algiers could escalate to economic and/or military actions.

Many Algerians will view the ruling FLN party’s electoral victory as proof nothing has changed, portending more protests and unrest.

Even if the country's current leaders are ultimately forced to step down, their successors won’t have the economic, political and social solutions that protesters are looking for.

The intensifying territorial dispute between Morocco and the region’s separatist movement risks spurring a far more serious battle with Algeria.