Issue 12. March 2014. (Rabi’ Al-Thani 1435 H.)    Abstract: Algeria is undergoing conflict between its loci of power in light of growing discord between those who call for a boycott of the elections and those who advocate participation in voting. This issue of Masarat will shed light on preparations taking place in Algeria for the elections and reactions to President Bouteflika’s decision to run for a fourth term despite his deteriorating health. It will also discuss the role the intelligence service has playe

China’s Foreign Policy Primer – Chinese Strategy in the Middle East Issue 11. February 2014. (Rabi’ Al-Awal 1435 H.)   Abstract: This issue of Masarat provides a general outline of China’s foreign policy strategy in the Middle East. This will be accomplished by examining the factors and structural legacies influencing China’s foreign policy making process. The purpose of this is to place China’s strategy – in whatever arena – within a context that will elucidate its conduct and policy choices. The p

Analysis of UNSC Problematic Veto Yielding Power Issue 10. January 2014 (Safar 1435 H.)   Abstract: The role of the United Nations Security Council is to maintain international peace and security. However, in the past few decades, concerns have arisen over the Council’s legitimacy and representativeness. Ad-hoc coalitions and the usual unilateralism undermine the legitimacy of the Council, while the Council’s lack of structural change since the Second World War highlights its unrepresentativeness. The need to reform t

Shi‘ite Foreign Fighters in Syria Issue 9. December 2013 (Muharram 1435 H.   Abstract:The Syrian Revolution has ushered in the return of global Shi‘ite jihad to the political arena. This phenomenon is evident in the increasing number of Shi‘ite militants arriving in Syria from around the world. Shi‘ite militants fighting in support of the Assad regime mostly come from Iraq and Lebanon, although there are fighters from Iran, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Yemen and some countries in Africa. Scholars and

Saudi Arabia: From a Reactive to a Proactive Foreign Policy Issue 8. November 2013 (Dhu Al-Hijjah 1434 H.)   Abstract:Saudi Arabia’s main foreign policy motive has always been centered on political stability and economic security in the region. The Kingdom has always been determined to maintain close ties with its neighbors while sustaining its relations with international allies. Yet, the events of the Arab uprising put forward new challenges not only to the Middle East region but also worldwide. Therefore, the

This Text is Available Only in Arabic

This text is only available in Arabic

This text is only available in Arabic

This text is only available in Arabic

(.Issue 3. June 2013 (Rajab 1434 H   Abstract For over three decades, presidential elections in Iran have been a defining moment of transition in different political periods of the Islamic Republic. A unique state institution, the presidency in Iran is at once hampered by constitutional restrictions on the power and authority of its incumbent and a desired target for factions internal to the political regime and ambitious politicians alike. The eleventh presidential elections of the Islamic Republic were held on 15 June 2013 a