Author: Laith Kubba | Journal of Democracy

Laith Kubba, a native of Baghdad, is senior director for the Middle East and North Africa at the National Endowment for Democracy. From May 2005 to March 2006, he was chief press spokesperson for Iraq’s Prime Minister Ibrahim al-Jaffari.

July 2008, Volume 19, Issue 3

Islamist Parties and Democracy: Institutions Make the Difference

Laith Kubba

Read the full essay here. Political Islam is often cited as the key challenge to democratization in Muslim nations, but deep currents of authoritarianism may prove more of an obstacle. Traditions of monarchy, military rule, and weak civic institutions block the path of democratic transition throughout the Muslim world. Political Islam does of course present…

April 2003, Volume 14, Issue 2

What Is Liberal Islam?: Faith and Modernity

Laith Kubba

If they are to understand Islam authentically and to embrace the modern world freely, Muslims must take a new attitude toward their traditions of interpretation.

July 2000, Volume 11, Issue 3

Arabs and Democracy: The Awakening of Civil Society

Laith Kubba

While despotic Arab regimes may seem stable, change is brewing beneath the surface. A new era is emerging in which the state will be forced to retreat before a vibrant civil society.

April 1996, Volume 7, Issue 2

Islam and Liberal Democracy: Recognizing Pluralism

Laith Kubba

Read the full essay here.

Islam and Democracy in the Middle East

World Religions and Democracy

Can religion be compatible with liberal democracy? This volume brings together insights from renowned scholars and world leaders in a provocative discussion of religions' role in the success or failure of democracy.