Comparing the Governments of Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Israel:

Which country has a democratic form of government where both men and women over 18 years old vote for representatives? Saudi Arabia Israel Iran

Parliamentary Democracy of Israel: Upon reaching 18, both men and women can vote. Citizens vote for 120 members of Parliament (law makers). The head of government is the Prime Minister who is chosen by members of Parliament. Israel uses a unitary system where the central government handles most government functions.

The head of government in a Parliamentary System is chosen by: Citizens voting in a separate election from the legislature. By legislators (other members of Parliament)

Theocracy: The government of Iran Iran’s government is based on the religion of Islam. Men and women 18 and over vote for a president. An assembly of religious experts appoints the Supreme Leader of Iran. The Supreme leader has more power than the president.

What is a theocracy? A type of democracy. A government based on religion. A government based on a supreme leader.

Iran is a(an) _____________, because only a small group of “religious experts” actually chooses the leader. Autocracy Presidential Democracy Oligarchy

The Monarchy of Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia is ruled by a king or monarch. The king inherits the right to rule. Men 21 and older may vote but only on certain issues approved by the king. Saudi Arabia is an autocratic government King of Saudi Arabia

The King is not elected and makes all final decisions concerning laws The King is not elected and makes all final decisions concerning laws. This is an example of: Democracy Autocracy Oligarchy Theocracy

The Economy of Israel Mixed market economy. The most diversified economy in the Middle East. Skilled and educated workers manufacture high- tech equipment. Tourism Government involved in controlling agriculture. Grows most of its own food despite water shortages.

Israel has few natural resources and is in conflict with surrounding countries. This has led Israel to develop: An industry based on oil. A booming trade market with its neighbors. A diversified economy built on highly educated workers

Two challenges facing Israel’s economy: Scarce water and conflict with neighbors. Low literacy rates and oil reserves. Autocratic government and lack of skilled workers.

Saudi Arabia Before 1930 a traditional economy: camel herding and textiles. 1930 oil discovered Today, mostly a command economy run by Saudi royal family. Income from oil accounts for 60% of nation’s GDP. Oil will eventually run out-trying to invest in other industries - become a mixed market economy.

Saudi Arabia One third of Saudi Arabia’s workforce comes from other countries. Investment in education is important raise the country’s low literacy rates.

Over the last 50 years, why have people been leaving the nomadic life in Saudi Arabia and moving to cities? Water has been drying up Many wars in the region Discovery of Oil has changed the economic system

Saudi Arabia is currently moving away from a command system towards a: Traditional System Mixed Market System Communist System

Turkey Before 1980’s was a command economy Today becoming mixed market Private agriculture, manufacturing and textiles Government still controls much of banking, transportation, and communications. A poor nation with low literacy rates Trying to join the EU –European Union