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Resolving Identity Conflict in the Middle East: A Theoretical Understanding

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Post-Conflict Power-Sharing Agreements

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Abstract

Ghais examines the inherent weaknesses and shortcomings of power sharing formulae in the Middle East, especially in Syria. He introduces an operational definition of identity conflict and presents the debate about the success prospects of power sharing formulae of consociational democracy. He, then, identifies the essential conditions that sustain democracies in identity pluralistic societies to include even socio-economic development to precede democratization, enlightened elite who enjoy legitimate representation of their groups and are committed to the unity of the state, “citizens” who belong and perceive full legal equality and participation, and the important recognition and support of the neighboring states and major powers. In light of these theoretical dimensions, Syria, Iraq, and Lebanon seem likely to have turbulent futures.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Government and International Relations, Notre Dame University, Lebanon, Zouk Mikael, Zouk Mosbeh, Lebanon

    Chahine Ghais

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  1. Chahine Ghais
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Correspondence to Chahine Ghais .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Institute for Social Justice and Conflict Resolution, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon

    Imad Salamey

  2. Peacebuilding and Development Institute, American University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA

    Mohammed Abu-Nimer

  3. United States Institute of Peace, Washington, District of Columbia, USA

    Elie Abouaoun

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Ghais, C. (2018). Resolving Identity Conflict in the Middle East: A Theoretical Understanding. In: Salamey, I., Abu-Nimer, M., Abouaoun, E. (eds) Post-Conflict Power-Sharing Agreements. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-60104-5_2

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