Democratic Development in Oman

Abstract

Everyone accepts that a one-size-fits-all model cannot deliver successful democratic reform. But it is less widely understood that the process is open-ended, with no predetermined finishing line. Development depends on a political version of bio-diversity, in which democracy emerges organically out of existing local traditions and practices. In the case of Oman, a deeply rooted tradition of consultative rule and the distinctive philosophy of Ibadism has been shaping democratic development for 30 years.