The Middle East is in an uproar. They demand change but for countries that are so unfamiliar with the democratic process, it is imperative for the United States to begin information campaigns that educate them on the various ways to change their governments. Our subtle way of showing the world the change of power through the change of U.S. Presidents and more recently congressional leadership i.e. from Speakers Pelosi to Boehner are two ways. Unfortunately, the people of the Middle East need a quick crash course on democratization as they demand change now. If the U.S. does not act now, we may be looking at regime takeovers that include radical leaders. Now is the best time, better than ever to implement a pro-democratic psychological operations campaign in Egypt and other Middle Eastern Countries. With millions of Egyptian citizens begging for change, it is now time for Western Human Intelligence (HUMINT) agencies along with Psychological Operations (Psyops) assets to disseminate information on how to complete change into a democratic society rather than them going off of perceptions of what they believe is democratic. Psyops must give the who, what and when of democratic change.
Who
The Egyptian people and Mubarak are the subjects in which we target. The Egyptian people will need to know that peaceful demonstrations are allowed and encouraged. Parallels can and should be made to non-violent revolutions in Western Civilizations including but not limited to the protests lead by famous US civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Other leaders in that category all over the world should be used with a de-emphasis on US democracy and emphasis of regional governments. The people must be aware that destroying the country is not a goal that should be sought and is counter productive. This is also the time to prop potential leaders that are allies to the United States so that in-case of fall of the current regime that the power vacuum is not filled by the radical groups like the Muslim Brotherhood.
Mubarak is the second part of the equation. He must continue the democratic reforms urged by his western counterparts. Installing a Vice President was one but another is open and free democratic elections to be held in the near future. Mubarak must bring those appointed revolutionary leaders to the table to discuss and mull over reforms and encourage their supporters to calm protests.
What
Our goals are free and open elections and government reforms. Just toppling the current regime will not lead us there. Leaders from all groups must be included in talks to create such change. This is where the US needs to educate the various parties to become apart of the democratic process. From party and candidate registration to peaceful protest this educates the newcomers to democracy on how it has been accomplished in the western states. Remember, for 30 years they have known no other type of government so re-education to a process is what needs to happen to ensure they do not detour to something non-democratic.
Mubark and the current government must be specific. Dates of elections, and specific reforms enactments must be given. The people of Egypt must see that change is coming their way.
When
The Egyptian people, Mubarak, and the United States must act now. The people of egypt have no plan and their protests show to be chaotic. There are no current reports that show any instigation by any radical groups but rest assured they are waiting for the perfect time to install their leaders and ideals to the fallen regime. The US must act now with their Psyop campaigns ensure that our interest are maintained in the region. Once Egypt is stabilized, similar campaigns can be disseminated throughout the Middle East.
