Mid-East: Will there be a domino effect?

In the wake of the ousting of Tunisia's President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali, observers have drawn parallels with other countries in the region.

There is speculation about a possible domino effect similar to the collapse of Communist governments around Eastern Europe in 1989.
In several countries of the Middle East and North Africa, youthful and rapidly growing populations face rising food prices, high unemployment and lack of political representation.
Some are also ruled by ageing autocrats facing succession issues.
Which countries are involved and what is the likelihood of real change?

Egypt

The traditional strength and solidity of the Egyptian state has made its collapse seem unthinkable - until now.

Protesters are demanding the president steps down

But like Tunisia, citizens face tough economic conditions, official corruption and little opportunity to express their dissatisfaction with the political system.
On 25 January, that deep frustration spilled over and protesters took to the streets of Cairo and other cities in numbers not seen since the bread riots of the 1970s.
Many were waving Tunisian as well as Egyptian flags.
Since then, daily clashes and protests have put the regime of President Hosni Mubarak in doubt.
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