Reflection

Studying the Middle East over the last 13 weeks has been one of the most intensive units I have studied and we have barely skimmed the surface. Is it difficult to comprehend the complexity of the region, with conflicting religions, sects, ethnic group and external influences. I believe the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is one of the most intractable of our time and cannot see any positive changes in the near future. However on the other hand I can see how quickly a situation can change. One week I blogged about the possibility of a three state solution on the basis of an unlikely reconciliation between Hamas and Fatah, however just two weeks later they reconciled their 7 year conflict.

Another example of how situations can change is the Arab Spring of 2011 which was sparked by a single mans actions in Tunisia. No one could have predicted this was cause such an impact across the region.

As a social justice student I have been moved by the human rights abuses in the region and disgusted at the actions and lack of actions by the West. In the future I hope to see Australia taking ownership of its foreign policy and not just following the US. In particular I hope to see a move toward prioritising human rights over economic goals. This unit has sparked an interest for me and I will continue to explore issues in Middle East, particularly the Israeli-Palestine conflict and the Syrian refugee crisis.

Middle East and Social Change

To look at social change in the last 5 years over the entire Middle East region is a difficult task. The Arab Awakening was successful in deposing authoritarian regimes and em stalling a form of democracy in Tunisia and Egypt, whether these democracies are viable remains to be seem. However political progress does not always translate to civil liberties and social change.
As a social justice student I have taken a focus on human rights and particularly women's rights.  I believe that empowering women through education is the key to overcoming poverty and oppression. When a women is educated their is ripple effect in her family and the community.
In regards to women and education I believe Iran has made the most progress in recent years. Enrolment is education is equal in gender and one third of medical students are female. Today the government reiterated its commitment toward women's education. "Women should enjoy equal opportunities, immunity and social rights; we have a long way to go on this path before we reach the destination," President Rouhani said. The government intend to set up a women workgroup for different religions and tribes in the Women and Family Affairs Department. 

Based on the education reforms and commitment to a future of women's participation in society I predict that Iran will continue the most social change. The next generation of women will be better educated which will impact on broader society. I look forward to seeing further reforms and conditions for women.