POL 3560 International Politics in the Middle East

This course examines the historical and actual events in The Middle East. To understand the most strategic but complex region in the world we first take a look to the Political Geography of the Middle East. We deepen in the historical background topics of Iraq, Lebanon and Palestine and debate the actual situation. The objective of the course is to promote the interaction of ideas and arguments based on a balanced analysis of the themes. Students participate in various ways: writing essays, internet research assignments, documentary movies, socio-dramas and debating actual topics.

New in the course is the war in Afghanistan and the actual role of Pakistan!

OBJECTIVE
1. Transferring knowledge about backgrounds of countries and their major international affairs throughout history.
2. Gaining insight in actual developments in The Middle East.
3. Analysing possible causes of conflict and their link to other parts of the world.
4. Looking for realistic ways and ideas to end violence and reach peace.