Regional Security Complexes: The Case of the Middle East and North Africa

Abstract

This paper examines the concept of Regional Security Complexes (RSCs) with a specific focus on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. RSCs are defined as clusters of states and non-state actors whose security dynamics are closely interlinked, influencing and being influenced by their regional environment. In the MENA region, a complex interplay of historical grievances, geopolitical rivalries, sectarian divisions, and external interventions has shaped a distinct security architecture. This paper explores how regional conflicts, such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the Syrian civil war, and the rise of ISIS, interact with state and non-state actors’ security policies. It also assesses how the involvement of external powers, including the United States, Russia, and regional players like Iran and Saudi Arabia, further complicates the security landscape. By analyzing these dynamics, the paper aims to provide insights into how the MENA region's security complex operates and suggest potential pathways for stability and cooperation. The findings underscore the importance of understanding regional security in terms of both internal dynamics and external influences, offering a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities facing the MENA region today.