Contrast between Algeria and Morocco

July 7, 9:32 AMNY Israel Conflict ExaminerRichard Shulman

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Algeria just had a Soviet-style election.  Morocco just had a free one -- greater citizen interest, officials’ sense of responsibility, and full female participation.

Morocco allows Christians and Jews to practice their religions openly.  The law permits conversion from Islam.  The government is investing much in education the economy, and in integrating its diverse ethnic groups.  Its monetary reserves exceed its debt.  As an example of tolerance, it allows alcohol to be sold in supermarkets  (Rachel Ehrenfeld, head of American Center for Democracy, in Manhattan, 6/17).

Ehrenfeld usually is reliable.  I hope that this report is representative of Morocco.  I don’t think that the sale of alcohol is a great reform, but that is personal opinion.