CIBER Focus: "Conflict in the Middle East and North Africa" with Rajendra Abhyankar

Rajendra Abhyankar discusses the Libyan conflict, the wave of revolutions sweeping the Middle East and North Africa, and the economic effects of these uprisings in an interview with Joel Arnold. Abhyankar, former Indian Ambassador to the EU, begins with an explanation of why India abstained from the UN resolution that established a no fly zone in Libya. He continues to give an overview of the conflict in Libya and analyzes the trend of protests and demonstrations spreading through the area, specifically comparing the Libyan and Egyptian uprisings. He argues that continued UN involvement is essential to ending the impasse in Libya. Abhyankar also discusses the principle causes for the unrest in this region, citing a lack of good governance, an inadequate education system and women's empowerment. He gives an overview of the region's economy and discusses the lack of a vibrant private sector due to government involvement. Abhyankar concludes by describing the potential effects of the uprising on the international community, including a shortage of resources and increasing food prices. *This video was recorded as a part of the Indiana University CIBER Focus Vodcast Series.