«This book is an invaluable resource for students of the Middle East. It is a highly accessible, but nuanced text that rightly eschews simplistic explanations of an increasingly complex region. The authors’ decision to undertake a thematic analysis of events and currents across the last 150 years makes the book one of the best of the genre, and ensures that students of all levels will be well served.»

Dara Conduit, Lecturer in Political Science, University of Melbourne, Australia

«To analyse in depth and nuance the comparative politics of the Middle East in less than 300 pages and to offer such a sum to both the academic community and general public is a real tour de force. Two of the most brilliant representatives of Middle East Studies combine their efforts to synthesize numerous years of burning events, passionate debates and innovative leads. A stellar contribution.»

Mohamed-Ali Adraoui, Assistant Professor in Middle East History, Politics and International Relation

«This book provides an excellent overview of the historical, religious, social, political and economic context framing the persistence of authoritarianism in the modern Middle East. It analyses the domestic and international forces at play, and what impact this may have on political and security institutions, state society relations and gender relations. Accessible and engaging, Cavatorta and Durac’s book serves as a comprehensive guide for any student of Middle East politics.»

Natasha Lindstaedt, Professor of Government, University of Essex, UK

«An extremely useful tool both for students and professionals who want to better understand political dynamics in the Middle East and North Africa. Extensive, accurate and well informed, this second edition provides an updated analysis of the region’s politics in light of more recent political developments and debates. An essential textbook that offers a fresh overview of countries, issues and political trajectories.»

Rosita Di Peri, Associate Professor in Political Science and International Relations, University of

«The second edition of this innovative textbook provides a dynamic overview of the key topics characterising the MENA region and the substantial changes it has witnessed since the Arab Uprisings, offering a balanced overview while also questioning the validity of nation-state systems in the region. This book is an essential textbook for university students and scholars, as well as for the average interested reader seeking a basic knowledge of politics in the Middle East.»

Younis Lahwej, Lecturer in Politics and International Relations of the Middle East, University of Re