War and Peace in the 21st Century. The future of the Middle East: understanding conflict, building peace

The Middle East is one of the most complex regions in the world. It has recently entered a new wave of conflict, characterised by unprecedented level of violence. About a year and a half after Hamas’ terrorist attacks and Israel’s disproportionate response, which has caused more than 45,000 deaths and a serious humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the conflict spread into Lebanon and the prospects for regional escalation became a real danger. Syria has put an end to the Assad regime but, at the same time, entered a new era of uncertainty. 

The escalation of violence in current circumstances has lasted longer than previous waves of the Arab-Israeli conflict and has involved more actors, both regional and international. The authority of the United States in the region, under a new Trump Administration is questioned, while the European Union looks increasingly weak and divided. The United Nations, paralysed by an ineffective Security Council, is also unable to promote peace, and the countries of the Global South observe with resentment the double standards of the West, when compared to other conflicts such as the war in Ukraine. Which are the roots of conflict in Middle East? Why is so hard to secure peace? How can the international community promote dialogue and solutions to a lasting peace? What parameters need to be discussed at times of political change in Washington and Brussels? What role should regional and international actors play? Which future scenarios for the Middle East can be envisaged after the current crisis?

This year, the 'War and Peace in the 21st Century' international conference will address the roots of conflict in the Middle East and its international dimension, examining how the international community can promote dialogue and solutions to a lasting peace, and which future scenarios can be envisaged for the region after the current crisis.