Cal has a good article "Don't expect Arab results to usher in freedom" today.
" ... consistently finds that all (Arab states) are ruled by dictatorial regimes that oppress their people, deny basic freedoms of press, speech and due process and are intolerant of any faith other than Islam." ... "in countries where Shariah Law is the legal standard (fruit) is rotten when it comes to tolerance, religious pluralism, a free and independent press and equal rights for women."
It is worthwhile reading.
SamKat