The Politics of Social Welfare in the Middle East

This seminar explores the politics of social welfare in the Middle East. The first section of the course examines the concept and origins of welfare systems in developing countries as well as the relationship between the state, NGOs, civil society and informal networks in social service provision. This segment of the course also provides an overview and brief history of welfare regimes in the Middle East as well as concepts of charity and justice in Islam. Enrollment limited to 20 juniors and seniors concentrating in Political Science and International Relations. Preference for remaining spots given to concentrators in Developmental Studies and Middle East Studies.