The Mediterranean and Middle East Working Group brings together a cross-departmental community of researchers, fellows, and faculty to explore key political, socio-economic, and security dynamics in the Mediterranean and the (mainly Mediterranean) Middle East.
Today, the region faces an unprecedented complexity as it navigates through shifting power alliances involving local and global actors. Unparalleled levels of violence, stark economic disparities, persistent gender inequalities, authoritarianism and crony capitalism coexist with and contribute to significant migration flows. Meanwhile, environmental pressures resulting from climate change are escalating.
These conditions make rigorous scholarship and interdisciplinary exchange essential. Meeting once a month, this working group offers a collegial forum for EUI colleagues to share and gain feedback on their work, including through panels, workshops, and lectures, as well as a platform for hosting visiting speakers.
We invite anyone with an interest in the region and its dynamics to join our mailing list and contribute to our events.
Upcoming Events
- 23rd October 2026 (10:30-12:00, Sala Triaria, Villa Schifanoia): Dr Johannes Makar (Massachusetts Institute of Technology/I Tatti): "From Dhimmis to Effendis: Copts and the Making of a Cross-Confessional Public Sphere in Late Ottoman Egypt".
- 3rd November 2026 (12:00-13:30, Online & Sala Belvedere, Villa Schifanoia): Panel Discussion - Israel’s 2026 Elections: Groundhog Day (again)? [Register Here].
- 27th November 2026 (14:30-16:30, Sala Mansarda, Villa Schifanoia): Reading Group Workshop
- 29th January 2027 (11:00-13:00, Sala Belvedere, Villa Schifanoia): Speaker Event (to be announced)
Contact
If you would like to join the working group, contribute with your own presentation, or just be included in the mailing list, please email us at medmideast@eui.eu. Any comments, suggestions and ideas are also most welcome.