THE MIDDLE EAST UNDER TRANSFORMATION

THE MIDDLE EAST UNDER TRANSFORMATION

17 June, 17:30–18:45

The dramatic political changes taking place in Tunisia, Egypt and Yemen were followed by similar events in Libya, Bahrain and elsewhere. It is raising hope, but also concern for the future stability and prosperity of the Middle East.

1) With several long-serving autocratic leaders no longer in power, what type of political systems are we likely to see emerge over the medium term? How might the current unrest shift Sunni-Shiite power balances throughout the region?
2) What are the risks and opportunities for these countries? How are the changes underway likely to impact regional security and global energy supplies?
3) What can be done to encourage orderly change and sustainable new political systems?