We are all watching the political earthquake in Tunisia, as a corrupt dictator has been overthrown by the suffering populace.
But getting rid of one dictator is not enough. Democracy will only work if it is accompanied by genuine free speech, the rule of law, property rights, religious tolerance and equality for women. Too often, countries and nations are described as democratic - just if they hold elections - but this is only part of the equation of liberty, not the whole sum.
In the case of Tunisia, there is a strong possibility that the current vacuum may quickly be filled by Islamists - in particular Al Qaeda, which are thought to be active in the region.
I hope Western nations, including Britain, are active in doing their part - to ensure that a genuinely democratic government emerges. They must take every necessary step to stop Tunisia becoming a bastion for resurgent Islamists and Terrorists. The security of the Middle East depends upon it.
Click HERE (and scroll down) to see a question I asked about this in the Commons today, during an emergency statement on Tunisia.
by Robert Halfon - www.roberthalfon.blogspot.com
