This publication addresses a number of key issues that would determine the success or failure of sustainable democratization in the countries of the Middle East. Drawing on conceptual and country analysis it examines various important issues such as, patterns of democratization, the relationship between civil society and the state, internal and external factors of democratization, the relationship between Islam, Islamic movement and democratization, experiences of democratic transition processes and resulting national and regional peace dividends, and the interdependence of development, peace and democratization, and political and economic transition. The conclusion of the book proposes gradual and organized reforms that would advance democratization in the region.