American Bedu writes:According to Wikipedia, WASTA is defined as ‘who you know’. It refers to using one’s influence or connections to get things done, such as quick renewal of a passport, waiving of traffic fines, and even garnering prestigious jobs.”
The use of WASTA is endemic in the Middle East region and particularly so in Saudi Arabia. I have also written previously about WASTA but given its widespread use in Saudi Arabia and also a recent experience, felt it was prudent to readdress the subject.
Check out the rest of the article, discover the link to the earlier one and enjoy the informative comments on Wasta, one of the big issues for understanding Middle Eastern culture:
Saudi Arabia: WASTA in Action, American Bedu, 27 November 2008.
Dr Geoff Pound
Image: No Wasta, from a site waging a No Wasta Campaign.
