DAFF 25A13 - International Community and the Troubled Middle East (The)

This course aims to offer an introduction to the area. The course has several pedagogical objectives: 1/ To introduce students to the major geographical and historical dynamics that structure (and divide) the region; 2/ To introduce them to the national, ethnic, and religious identities that divide the region; 3/ To introduce them to the major transnational movements shaping the region in the contemporary era (anti-imperialism, “Arab nationalism,” political Islam, along with relevant concepts and terminology); 4/ To characterize the evolving and shifting roles of key external actors (UN, United States, Russia, China, European states, EU). 5/ All of this is based on the use of open sources, including those from American and European think tanks (though not exclusively).

Pierre THENARD

Séminaire

English

No regional specialization (in the North-Africa – Middle East) is required, but, at least, a basic knowledge of international relations and geopolitics (History and Geography) should be helpful.

Autumn and Spring 2025-2026

1/ An oral presentation in class, individually or preferably in small groups (maximum 4 students), on a topic aligned with the syllabus (strict adherence to the schedule is important). This counts for 45% of the final grade. 2/ A final individual paper of around ten pages, on a topic freely chosen by the student, with the professor's approval and within the scope of the course. This counts for another 45% of the final grade. 3/ A personal engagement grade that considers the student's contribution to class life and the progression of the course. It may be supplemented by an (optional) reading report. This grade counts for 10% of the final grade.