2021 is a significant year for the Middle East and its people. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has recently won a fourth term in office, despite the U.N. calling for voting under international supervision. Analysts and human rights experts have raised their concerns over the Iranian presidential elections which will be held on Friday 18th June. In January, the Palestinian Authority’s President, Mahmoud Abbas announced the first presidential elections in 15 years. They have recently been postponed following a dispute over voting in East Jerusalem, divisions within the Fatah party, and the escalation of violence.
What do these elections mean for Syrians, Iranians, and Palestinians? Will they have an impact on human rights in the Middle East?
Host Wade McElwain is joined by famous singer Nabil Salameh, journalist Farian Sabahi and Head of Syria portfolio & Nonresident Senior Fellow at Atlantic Council, Jomana Qaddour, to discuss the impact of this year’s elections on the region.