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To: DocFarmer
What kind of changes do you think we'll see in Saudi?
18 posted on 04/30/2003 7:05:10 AM PDT by holdmuhbeer
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To: holdmuhbeer
Understand, this is only a guess on my part. And it'll have to do with two major issues - US/Coalition pressure, and the current King popping his clogs...

The Crown Prince Abdullah seems to be a bit more progressive than his brother (the reigning monarch), and he's been distancing himself from some of the more radical elements of the Wahabi. There have been some curbs placed on the Mutawa in recent years, and the Internet is showing folks a lot more of what's going on (except in the world of porno, sadly...).

If I had to guess, I'd state that the House of Saud will remain in control of the government, but that it will modify from a strict monarchy to a constitutional monarchy. Some additional representative reforms will be introduced (the council of ministers will be expanded to an elected group instead of appointed). Although Islam will remain the state religion, I think there will be some relaxation of the stricter interpretation of many cultural practices. However, I think it'll take many years before women are allowed to drive. But that's only because the men don't want to have the women show them up (Saudi driving is one of the most frightening experiences you can ever have, trust me!).

But this is only a guess...
20 posted on 04/30/2003 7:12:11 AM PDT by DocFarmer
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