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　　　In order to keep abreast of the rapidly changing political situation in the Islamic Middle East, the Sasakawa Peace Foundation (SPF) is currently conducting a lecture series on political movements in the region. In the 14th lecture, SPF invited Ms. Ayaka Suzuki, Deputy Director of Africa I Division in the Department of Political Affairs at the United Nations in New York. Ms. Suzuki will give a talk on Tuesday 18th February on “The Situation in the Middle East and the United Nations’ Role after the Arab Awakening”.

　　　The lecture highlighted some of the common challenges and issues facing the region such as youth, human rights, security, economic difficulties, women’s rights, as well as where the situation is heading and its implications. Ms. Suzuki discussed despite markedly different political contexts why the rapid social mobilization combined with the widespread poverty in the region has been one of the main features of the "Arab Spring" throughout the Middle East and North Africa region. Ms. Suzuki will further elaborate on the peoples’ powerful determination for change and their willingness to pay tragic costs; how the speed and reach of the changes have forced a new political climate in many counties. The aftermath of the "Arab Spring" has not been stabilized yet, and a genuine dialogue between stakeholders has yet to emerge.
　　　Against this backdrop, Ms. Suzuki also discussed the role of the United Nations in its values, as well as its efforts to support the transition process in the Arab countries.