A melancholy lament from the Middle East: a rich history and civilizational achievements stand in sharp contrast to a region wracked by conflict.

The Arab world's understanding of power is changing. Driven by the Western world's hunger for oil and the multiplication of hard dollars, a new self-image is emerging, but so are claims to power and a greater say in a globalized world.

Mystical tension with traditional Arabic sounds that tell of the dangers of the desert and the stories of the tribes.

A restrictive, backward-looking and aggressive rhetoric in the sermons of the mullahs that reaches far beyond the religious camps.

The regression from Arab modernity back to supposedly ancient traditions and customs, which not only contradict the lifestyle of the Western world.

Trapped in the traditions of different Muslim epochs. Between the mystical practices of Islam and the aggressive interpretation of individual verses of the Koran.

The desert writes its own laws, ancient Arab tribes follow centuries-old rules and norms. A glimpse into the historical past of the Middle East.

To this day, old truths determine social life in the Arab world. It is difficult to distinguish between what is original and what social ingredients have been added through arbitrary rule.

The high potential for conflict in the Middle East has been known for decades. But due to growing global influences and interdependencies, this potential for conflict in the 21st century extends far beyond the region.

An Arab Spring led by a progressive movement: a blend of old traditions and new, contemporary social beliefs without restrictions on the individual.

The invisible power of a desert state demanding a voice on the world stage. Reading between the lines, there remains a sense of uncertainty as to what the goals of the foreign policy agenda really are.

The pent-up anger of several generations and an entire region over the contemptuous looks and decades of being treated as the plaything of the powerful.

A lament echoes from the minarets over the Arab metropolis. A feeling of sorrow, bitterness and powerlessness covers every house in the city like a mantle of fate.