The Middle East: transnational links and socio-political dynamics

The focus of this IO is socio-political dynamics, transnational links and international relations in and to the Middle East – from Morocco in the east to Afghanistan and Pakistan in the west.
 
Regarding the study of International Relations, the primary focus is regional structures of security and alliances, and the relationship between the Middle Eastern states, the US and Europe.
 
In studying the transnational links, the primary focus of the IO is a wide array of connections between state and non-state actors that encompasses relations among terrorist organizations and projects promoting corporation and dialogue between the Western World and the Middle East.
 
With regard to the study of socio-political dynamics, the focus is mainly on three aspects; namely processes of radicalization, the relationship between incumbents and opposition, and the use of religion as a source of identity and legitimacy among both state and non-state actors.
 
Lars Erslev Andersen, Head of the research unit

About the research unit