You might not like the direction a country takes with regard to expressing their democracy but to date the West reactions to cultures it disapproves of only serves to deepen the antagonism to Western mores and to reinforce clinging to familiar traditions.

Instead of spy satellites and bombs why not try communication satellites and ipads. The free exchange of information and ideas may well achieve what oppression and violence impedes. Instead of financial sanctions offer financial reinforcement of positive behaviour - for example financial support for womens educational facilities.

In the short term however people should be aware and prepared for the fact that it is the very rare country that doesn't experience violent upheaval and struggles between factions in the move from dictatorship to democracy.