European fears Arab world chaos may spark wave of immigrants

REVOLUTIONS hurtling through the Middle East have inspired millions of Europeans, who recall the awe they felt when communist regimes crumbled across the former Soviet bloc.

But along with the excitement come questions, fears and doubts — as the flames of revolt shoot up on the continent’s very doorstep.

Europe has long seen itself as a champion of democracy but many fear a flood of refugees hitting European shores, a concern made urgent by the crush of thousands of Tunisians who turned up in Italy after the North African country overthrew its autocrat, and signs that Libya — long a gateway of illegal emigration to Europe — is on the verge of implosion.