NGIZ Amsterdam | Van Bylandtlezing | A Century of Geopolitics in the Middle East

Gravin van Bylandt Century Session: A Century of Geopolitics in the Middle East What’s in store for the future?

One hundred years ago, the end of First World War marked the beginning of a turbulent period in the Middle East after a period of relative stability under Ottoman rule. Western interests, signified by documents like the Balfour Declaration, the Sykes-Picot Agreement, and the Treaty of Sèvres, turned the region into an area of volatility, conflict, and geopolitics.

Today, a century later, the region has changed significantly. The volatility and geopolitical struggles, however, have not. As the civil war in Syria is drawing to a close, the power balance in the region seems to be shifting: an established presence of Russia, growing Iranian influence, and a cold war between Saudi Arabia and Iran with consequences throughout the region.

During this Century Session, NGIZ Amsterdam looks the geopolitical history of the Middle East and how this shaped the region as well as its effect on the future. Will US influence retreat further? Can Russia consolidate its new stature? Is a direct conflict between Iran and Saudi Arabia inevitable?

Theme: A Century of Geopolitics in the Middle East: what’s in store for the future?
Speakers: Peyman Jafari (University of Amsterdam), Carl Stellweg (Journalist), Dr. Marina Calculli (University Leiden)

When: Wednesday, February 20, 19.00-21.00 hours
Location: Spui25, Spui 25, Amsterdam

We thank  the Van Bylandstichting for the financial support.