More than a century after the independence of most Arab countries, the question is no longer whether we owned the state, but rather: What have we done with it? Amid scattered achievements and ongoing setbacks, the Arab world today stands midway between “state-building” and “creating influence.”

It cannot be denied that past decades have witnessed the establishment of state institutions and improvements in infrastructure and education. Successful developmental experiences have emerged in the Gulf Arab states, which have managed to turn stability into economic diversification projects and future-oriented investments.

Conversely, other countries have faced economic crises and conflicts that have directly impacted their development paths, deepening the gap within the region.

Human capital, talent, and competence

The fundamental issue was not a lack of resources but how they were managed. Arab countries have significant human capital, but a substantial part of this talent emigrated in search of an environment that allows for creativity and achievement. Despite its drawbacks, this migration clearly indicated that the Arab world does not lack competence, but rather a nurturing environment for it.

In addition, trust in some communities has declined regarding the possibility of achieving a better future due to accumulating crises and a lack of clear vision. The real challenge lies not only in resolving these crises but in restoring confidence and building hope.

Furthermore, part of the cultural discourse still tends to glorify the past and its glories. There is no doubt that Arab history is rich with contributions in fields like medicine and astronomy, but the problem arises when this pride becomes a substitute for action or a justification for a lack of progress. History should be a source of inspiration, not a stopping point.

Success stories in Asia

Perhaps the most prominent lessons come from the experiences of countries that have succeeded in achieving this equation. Japan, despite its rich history, did not settle for pride in its past but rebuilt itself after World War II by investing in education and technology, becoming a global industrial power.

Likewise, China, which relies on a civilization stretching back thousands of years, tied this heritage to deep economic reforms, making it the world's second-largest economy.

South Korea, on the other hand, transformed within a few decades from a poor country to a global center for innovation and technology industries while maintaining its cultural identity.

The common denominator among these models is not just pride in history, but turning it into a catalyst for work and achievement by developing human capabilities, encouraging innovation, and embracing global experiences.

Therefore, it is important to objectively and dispassionately benefit from the Gulf experiences, not to replicate them verbatim, but to understand the elements of their success: stability, clear vision, investment in education, and openness to the world.

Shifting Arab priorities

The next phase requires a shift in priorities in our Arab world from being preoccupied with crises to focusing on solutions, from crisis management to capacity building, and from consuming ideas to producing them. It also requires directing efforts towards preparing a generation capable of competing in a global economy based on knowledge and technology.

The Arab challenge today is not to revive the glories of the past but to create a future worthy of its history. The world does not wait for those who reminisce about what was but opens its doors to those who create what will be.

While the region possesses all the components, the real bet remains on the Arab individual: through education, preparation, and confidence in a better future.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by the writers are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Annahar.