Rethinking International Relations through the Middle East

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.12797/Politeja.23.2026.103.01

Keywords:

Middle East, Middle East Studies, IR Theories

Abstract

This article examines the evolving relationship between the Middle East as a region and the broader field of International Relations (IR) theory. It investigates how different IR paradigms – realism, liberalism, constructivism, postcolonialism, and critical theories – have interacted with or been challenged by the Middle East’s regional dynamics. Drawing primarily from recent scholarship, this work highlights the gap between universal IR theory and region-specific complexities, ultimately proposing a more pluralistic and culturally informed theoretical synthesis.

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Author Biography

  • Jerzy Zdanowski, Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski Krakow University

    Pofessor at the Faculty of Law, Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski Krakow University. He is a political scientist, historian and orientalist who has specialised for many years in research on the Middle East, Islam and international relations. He is the author of over 20 books and more than 120 academic articles.

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Published

04-08-2026

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How to Cite

“Rethinking International Relations through the Middle East”. 2026. Politeja 23 (3(103): 5-25. https://doi.org/10.12797/Politeja.23.2026.103.01.