Security networks, deep states, and the democratic deficit in the Middle East

This article argues that part of the reason why some Middle Eastern states remain democratically challenged is the emergence, operation, and political influence of “security networks” and “deep states” — informal actors in the area of national security. The article explains what these actors are, situates them in a broad theoretical and comparative perspective, assesses their impact on democratic development, and provides examples from Turkey, Lebanon, Israel, and Egypt.