But it proved to be too lively for the Al-Khalifa and was suspended in 1975. No votes for Omani fisherman Since then popular unrest, led mainly by the Shi'a majority, has sporadically broken out. Proceedings in Saudi Arabia's shura are even kept secret from the public, although nothing controversial could be discussed there. Oman held elections for its shura council in 1997. Meanwhile the Gulf states' western allies generally keep quiet about democratic reform and popular participation.
Diplomats say it is better to work behind the scenes.
Critics of this approach say western governments just are unwilling to rock this particular boat. Khatami's revolution Since 1997 the contrast between the Arab side of the Gulf and Iran could not be more marked. That year saw a president, Mohammed Khatami, elected on a wave of popular support, who is now implementing a programme of reform on the international and domestic levels. That is not to say Gulf leaders lack popularity or are incapable of introducing reforms. But many of their subjects see Iran as a positive role model for the first time in 20 years.