The course aims to equip students with critical skills to navigate the complexities of Middle Eastern and North African politics. It will offer a solid introduction to the political, social, and economic developments that characterise the contemporary history of the region, delving into political systems and ideologies, political economy, gender and politics, non-state actors and contentious politics, as well as security and conflicts.
AIMS AND CONTENT LEARNING OUTCOMES
Students who have successfully completed the course will:
1) Be familiar with the key theories and concepts of international relations to better understand socio-economic and political changes in the MENA region.
2) Have a thorough understanding of the significant identity, linguistic, geographical, and religious diversity within the MENA.
3) Have in-depth knowledge of the various political systems existing in the region.
4) Have a clear understanding of the main political ideologies and thinkers that have shaped the region's politics.
5) Be able to critically examine contemporary events using key theoretical frameworks and empirical evidences.
Basic knowledge of Contemporary History and International Relations, together with an interest in contemporary political issues and social processes in the area, can facilitate the study. To facilitate better integration of all students, some key concepts will be taken up and/or supplementary readings suggested during the first few lectures
Lectures, student presentations, class discussions, and seminars with experts to nurture discussion and encourage class participation.
All lecturer’s communication will be done via Aulaweb
MODULES 1- Whose Middle East? In the middle of What? Defining the object of study
This module aims to provide critical tools for studying the Middle East and North African region. It will critically examine and historicise the use of key categories such as Middle East, MENA, SWANA, and Arab/Muslim world exploring how these categories shape our understanding of the region. Additionally, it offers a comprehensive introduction to the rich diversity of the MENA region, covering its geography, religions, languages, and the various identities across its countries.
2- Colonialism, decolonisation, and State formation in MENA politics
This module will introduce the key contemporary historical phases of MENA politics, starting with the fall of the Ottoman Empire and the subsequent colonial penetration and rule. It will provide an analysis of how various colonial structures functioned, examining the social, economic, and political aspects of colonial governance. Additionally, the module will explore the processes of decolonisation, independence struggles, and the formation of nation-states in the region, addressing the critical challenges that arose during these transitions.
3- Political thought
This module explores key political ideologies that have shaped the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. It examines the development and influence of Islamism and Pan-Arab Nationalism, two central movements in the region’s modern history. Additionally, the module delves into the political, cultural, and economic critiques of globalisation, exploring how global forces have impacted local identities and economies. The module will offer a comprehensive overview of the most influential thinkers in these ideological traditions.
4- States and institutions of the MENA region
This module will examine the various political systems present in the MENA region, ranging from republics to monarchies, and their key institutions. It will critically address the issues of authoritarianism and democracy, analysing governance models from a historical and comparative perspective. The module will provide an analysis of electoral politics and the role of political parties, while exploring the challenges to democratisation in the region.
5- Political economy of the MENA region
This module will explore the key issues surrounding the rentier state model, particularly in the MENA region. It will examine the external economic dynamics, such as foreign debt and the role of emerging economies like BRICS, alongside the control and management of natural resources. Additionally, the module will address the broader economic policies adopted by MENA states, analysing their impact on both domestic development and international relations.
6- Social movements and contentious politics
This module focuses on the study of non-institutional social actors, associations, and social movements within the MENA region. It will explore opposition movements of the 1970s and 1980s, including the rise of leftist movements and Islamism, as well as the role of trade unions in shaping political landscapes. The module will also examine the transformative impact of digital media on social movements, particularly during the 2011 uprisings, highlighting the significance of grassroots activism and their role in democratic transitions.
7- Gender and Politics
The module will provide a comprehensive exploration of gender, sexuality, and power structures in the MENA context. Building on the work of influential feminist thinkers and activists, the module examines the intersection of gender and politics in the MENA region, focusing on key issues such as state feminism, women's rights, and the development of feminist movements. The module will also delve into evolving gender norms that are reshaping traditional roles and identities in the region’s socio-political landscape. It will explore the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and the rise of queer movements within the region, analysing their influence on social and political change.
8- Conflicts and Security
This module will provide an overview of conflict and security in the Mena region. On one hand, it will focus on the issue of terrorism and counterterrorism (as well as prevention policies) adopted in MENA countries, with particular attention to their social, political, and economic impact. On the other hand, it will offer critical tools to study conflicts in the region, with a special emphasis on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the ongoing war in Gaza.
RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY
Students should prepare the following text (mandatory):
→ Additional material (articles, other readings, videos) will be provided during the course and will be available on Aula Web.
GUENDALINA SIMONCINI (President)
FRANCESCO BARALDI
GIAMPIERO CAMA
ANDREA CATANZARO
FABRIZIO COTICCHIA (President Substitute)
Classes will start on Wednesday 12 February 2025
"Attending students:
The final grade will be calculated on the basis of:
● Attendance and participation 20%
● Midterm exam 30%
● Final exam finale 50%
As a midterm assessment, students may opt to submit a self-authored academic paper on a topic relevant to the course, which will be presented to the class in a 15–20-minute oral presentation. The selected topic must be approved by the lecturer, who will provide guidance throughout the entire process, including recommendations on appropriate bibliography, as well as theoretical and methodological approaches.
The final exam will be an oral examination assessing the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the course, based on the mandatory text and one optional text chosen by the student.
Students with specific learning disorders:
