In-Between Border Spaces in the Levant

This book explores how actors in the Middle East perform their belonging despite historical and political constraints by examining interstitial spaces or in-between borders. It focuses on three interrelated aspects: space, power, and identity, and investigates these concepts through the notions of sovereignty and belonging. The case studies highlight how actors, territory, and powers relate to each other in order to understand historical and political processes that shape identities in interstitial zones.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 146 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate realm of interstitial spaces, or the in-between borders, within the Middle East. Through a series of compelling case studies, it explores the fascinating ways in which individuals and communities residing in these regions navigate their sense of belonging amidst the apparent constraints of history and politics.

In recent years, the Middle East has witnessed governments attempting to establish buffer zones or safe zones in border regions, exemplified by the establishment of such zones in Syria's borderlands following the onset of the civil war. The study of interstitial borders encompasses three interconnected dimensions: space, power, and identity. This volume aims to examine these axes of research through the lens of sovereignty and belonging, with the goal of shedding light on how these concepts can highlight the inherent in-betweenness of these interstitial zones.

Drawing from a perspective that recognizes borders as dynamic processes, the authors of these studies explore the theoretical potential of interstitial border spaces to reimagine notions of sovereignty and identity belonging in these interstitial zones. While concepts such as heterotopia, margins, liminality, borderlands, buffer zones, no man's land, or frontiers will be explored, each case study highlights the intricate relationships between actors, territories, and powers, contributing to a deeper understanding of the historical and political processes that shape identities within spatial constraints.

The chapters in this book were originally published as a special issue of the journal, Mediterranean Politics, showcasing the cutting-edge research and insights of esteemed scholars in the field.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367632366