Spread of democracy in Middle East unlikely

The mere thought that democracy will wash over Iraq and carry away other Arab countries in the Middle East like a domino effect is naive and unrealistic.

The Arab countries have no democratic tradition.

Most Arab countries are based on clan structures and often are split between ethnic and religious population groups. It doesn't mean that democracy will never grow in the Middle East, but it means that it will take a long time and it cannot be forced by foreign powers like the United States did with Germany and Japan after World War II.

The United States can garner much support if it supports the idea of a United Nations role in a future Iraq.

It will also help improve the relationship between Europe and the United States, a relationship that both parties need in light of future challenges.

Kristeligt Dagblad, Copenhagen, Denmark, - April 8