AIE357 - Democracy and Diplomacy in the Middle East
| Year: | 2026 unit information |
|---|---|
| Enrolment modes: | Trimester 2: Burwood (Melbourne), Online |
| Credit point(s): | 1 |
| EFTSL value: | 0.125 |
| Prerequisite: | Nil |
| Corequisite: | Nil |
| Incompatible with: | Nil |
| Study commitment: | Students will on average spend 150-hours over the teaching period undertaking the teaching, learning and assessment activities for this unit. |
| Scheduled learning activities - campus: | 1 x 1-hour lecture per week 1 x 1-hour seminar per week |
| Scheduled learning activities - online: | 1 x 1-hour online lecture per week 1 x 1-hour online seminar per week |
Content
This unit critically examines the intersection of democracy and diplomacy in the Middle East, analysing governance, conflict and international relations through historical and contemporary perspectives. It explores key democratic theories-consociationalism, democracy promotion, grassroots mobilization, and hybrid regimes-through case studies of Lebanon, Iraq, Tunisia, and Egypt. Diplomatic themes include foreign interventions, economic sanctions, multilateral negotiations, and soft power, with examples from Syria, Iran, Israel-Palestine, and UNESCO's cultural diplomacy. Students will assess competing political models, analyse diplomatic strategies, and evaluate the roles of state and non-state actors in shaping regional dynamics. The unit emphasizes critical engagement with complex issues across the region, equipping students with the analytical tools to assess governance, conflict resolution, and diplomatic negotiations. Upon completion of the unit, students will develop a nuanced understanding of Middle Eastern politics and diplomacy, preparing them for further study or careers in policy analysis, international affairs, or regional expertise. No prior study of the Middle East is required.
Unit fee information
Fees and charges vary depending on the type of fee place you hold, your course, your commencement year, the units you choose to study and their study discipline, and your study load.
Tuition fees increase at the beginning of each calendar year and all fees quoted are in Australian dollars ($AUD). Tuition fees do not include textbooks, computer equipment or software, other equipment or costs such as mandatory checks, travel and stationery.
For further information regarding tuition fees, other fees and charges, invoice due dates, withdrawal dates, payment methods visit our Current Students website.