"Exiting war economy dynamics: The impact on stabilisation and reconstruction in the MENA"

MEDirections Annual Conference

CALL FOR ABSTRACTS

19-20 November 2018, Florence (Italy)

Debates on reconstruction in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region commonly equate to a need for settlement on the ground. A decisive party victory or a peace agreement to end violence and make a step towards economic reconstruction. But no MENA conflict, neither in Libya, Syria, Iraq nor Yemen, appears close to such scenario. Security and economic realities created after years of strife and state collapse would likely persist, shaping how conflicts end and states are reconstructed. Let’s think outside the box…

How can economic reconstruction end ongoing conflicts and contribute to stabilisation? Maybe even to reconciliation and inclusion. What role should local and international businesses play? What about the oil rich governments, international and regional donors or investment and development banks? How can economic interests converge when geopolitical interests strongly diverge?

Do you have an idea to bring to the table in the debate on facilitating economic reconstruction in MENA conflict areas? Send us your abstract (400 words) and a short CV by 9 July at 9am (CET). Papers should have a sound analytical and conceptual base, and preferably be rich in empirics.

Submission outcome will be communicated by 20 July. For successful abstracts: draft papers (around 5000 words) are expected by 15 October. An e-book will be published with final papers, edited in line with feedback from the conference. Funding available for travel and accommodation.

Queries and email submissions to: Sarah.StJohn@EUI.eu

Scientific Committee:

Amr Adly | MEDirections Research Fellow

Luigi Narbone | MEDirections Director