Die erstaunliche Entwicklung Saudi-Arabiens
Der Economist schreibt:
Social change is the second component of MBS’s new contract with his people, and it has been nothing short of extraordinary. Less than a decade ago half the country’s population—its women—were shut out of public life and much of the labour market. Cinemas and concerts were banned. Any fun was had indoors, in the desert or abroad, away from the eyes of the religious police. Today women are free to travel, work and live where they like. The vice squad has been disbanded. Like the rest of the world, Saudis can now watch rock stars on stage and superheroes on the silver screen. Even in conservative parts of the country crowds of young people are out and about, revelling in their new freedoms.
About 60% of the government’s revenues still comes from selling crude. Although the hospitality and leisure industry is thriving, the flood of money being channelled into public spending is raising costs and crowding out private enterprise. Foreign investors are not yet excited about Saudi Arabia.
Social liberalisation has bought him time among a youthful population. However, if economic change stalls and Saudis’ livelihoods suffer, their goodwill could easily dissipate. Unrest at home could lead the government to crack down, undoing the progress the kingdom has made. Saudi Arabia has come a long way in just a few years. It still has far to go.