In light of the challenges and crises that currently face the Arab world and its masses, the Arab Renaissance for Democracy and Development (ARDD), now more than ever, reaffirms its solidarity with the peoples of the Arab world.
The distressing situation in which the Arab world currently finds itself is the product of poor performance, deep divisions separating peoples from their representatives and majorities from minorities. Rentierism, exclusion and deprivation, have been the hallmark of the region for decades.
The malaise of the status quo should strengthen our determination to build strong and free civil societies as a real step towards true democracies in the Arab world. Yet, democracy alone is not the complete answer; it must be combined with the respect of the rights of minorities.
ARDD recognizes that in order for equitable societies to emerge, individuals and institutions must be held accountable for their performance. Individuals must have the right to tell their own life stories. National institutions should enable them to work to achieve their aspirations, based not on favouritism, but on institutionally entrenched meritocracies, and thus possess the opportunity to have free and decent lives.
We believe that social unity, cooperation, rationality and wisdom, of individuals, governments and civil society institutions at the country level and in the wider Arab world with all its commonalities and shared heritage, together form the robust foundation needed to overcome the multiple crises facing the Arab world and build a better tomorrow.
Countries should enjoy independence and sovereignty, and be able to decide for themselves and live for and with the fruits of their own resolutions. Citizens are the real source of power. An authority that is emanates from an outside entity is a hostile infringement upon the development and rights of our people.
Internally, our countries must be inclusive and enable every individual to actively participate in the reform process, build the present and chart future progress in societies in which individuals, institutions and governments bear their responsibilities, are held accountable for their performance, and be recognized for their contributions and achievements.
We call upon all Arabs to face the challenges in unison, and we urge Arab governments to protect the rights of their people and civil societies, and to work together to build a developed and prosperous Arab world.
