Allying beyond Social Divides: Coalitions and Contentious Politics

This book offers a fresh look at the role of coalitions in contentious politics in North Africa and the Middle East,based on conceptual reflexions and empirical case studies by researchers who have conducted extensive fieldwork in the region. It argues that coalitions are moments of transformative encounter that can lead to changes in relations with political authorities, ideological learnings, repertoires of action, and understandings of the notion of right.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 152 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into a fresh perspective on the role of coalitions in contentious politics in North Africa and the Middle East. Drawing from conceptual reflections and extensive empirical case studies conducted by researchers who have extensively fieldwork in the region, the book offers a comprehensive exploration of this evolving landscape.

Coalitions of actors that have traditionally not been allies have emerged as a prominent feature of the protest movements that have swept across North Africa and the Middle East since 2011. These alliances, spanning ideological, generational, professional, ethnic, and class divides, have sparked curiosity about their potential for transformation. The authors of this book argue that it is crucial to go beyond mere analyses of factors that contribute to the success or failure of coalitions. Instead, they propose that coalitions are moments of transformative encounter that can lead to profound changes in relations with political authorities, ideological learnings, repertoires of action, and understandings of the concept of right.

In contrast to traditional approaches that view coalitions and social divides as opposing processes, this book advocates for a holistic understanding of the alliance of social groups. It suggests that studying these alliances is closely intertwined with exploring the processes of differentiation engineered by both political regimes and social actors. By examining the role of coalitions in contentious politics, the book aims to provide a sociology of coalitions in the Middle East based on key empirical examples.

The chapters in this book were originally published as a special issue of the journal, further enriching the discourse on the dynamics of coalitions in the region. The book offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between social movements, political regimes, and the broader social context, shedding light on the transformations that emerge from these alliances. Whether examining the dynamics of Islamist-Leftist alliances, worker-student union collaborations, or young engineer-local tribemen partnerships, this book provides a rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives.

In conclusion, this book offers a timely and insightful exploration of the role of coalitions in contentious politics in North Africa and the Middle East. By combining conceptual reflections with empirical case studies, it provides a comprehensive analysis of the dynamics, challenges, and opportunities that arise from these alliances. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and activists seeking to understand the complex dynamics of social movements.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367509002