Tribe–state relations in the Middle East are shaped by access to limited resources before state building, as shown in Scott Weiner's case comparison of Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 14 February 2024
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

Tribe–state relations are a crucial aspect of authoritarian bargains in the Middle East, particularly in the Gulf States. However, the structures of governance built upon this foundation exhibit significant variations. Scott Weiner's book, "Tribe–State Relations in the Gulf States: A Case Comparison of Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar," explores this variation in the salience of kinship authority. Through a case comparison of Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar, Weiner demonstrates that variation in tribal access to limited resources before state building can account for these differences. The book is based on empirical data and over 50 interviews with former government officials, tribal leaders, civil society activists, and students, providing valuable insights into state formation on the Arabian Peninsula.

Tribe–State Relations in the Gulf States: A Case Comparison of Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar

Tribe–state relations are a foundational element of authoritarian bargains in the Middle East, particularly in the Gulf States. However, the structures of governance built upon that foundation exhibit wide differences. What explains this variation in the salience of kinship authority?

Through a case comparison of Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar, Scott Weiner shows that variation in tribal access to limited resources before state building can account for these differences. Based on empirical data and over 50 interviews with former government officials, tribal leaders, civil society activists, and students, the book reveals important new details about state formation on the Arabian Peninsula.

Introduction

The Gulf States are a region of the Middle East that is characterized by its oil wealth, political stability, and authoritarian governance. The Gulf States have a long history of tribalism, with tribes playing a significant role in the political and social life of the region. However, the structures of governance built upon this foundation exhibit significant variations. This book aims to explore these variations and their implications for state formation and governance in the Gulf States.

The Case Studies

The book focuses on three Gulf States: Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar. Each state has a unique history, culture, and political system, and the book explores how these factors have shaped their tribal relations and governance structures. Kuwait is a small, oil-rich emirate that has been ruled by the Al-Sabah family since the 18th century. Oman is a large, oil-rich sultanate that has been ruled by the Al-Busaid family since the 17th century. Qatar is a small, gas-rich emirate that has been ruled by the Al-Thani family since the 19th century. Each state has its own tribal system, with different levels of influence and power. The book explores how these tribal systems have been shaped by historical events, political developments, and economic changes.

Tribal Access to Limited Resources

One of the key factors that explains variation in tribal access to limited resources before state building is the historical context of the Gulf States. The Gulf States were colonized by the British in the 19th century, and this colonization had a significant impact on the region's political and economic systems. The British introduced a system of indirect rule, which allowed tribes to maintain their traditional authority over their lands and resources. However, this system was also exploitative, and tribes were often forced to give up their land and resources to the British. This led to a significant decline in tribal power and influence in the Gulf States.

In addition to the historical context, the book also explores the role of oil in shaping tribal access to limited resources. Oil has been a major source of revenue for the Gulf States, and this has led to the development of large oil companies and the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few families. This has also led to the displacement of tribes from their traditional lands and resources, as oil companies have sought to access new reserves. The book explores how tribes have responded to these changes and how they have been able to maintain their traditional authority over their lands and resources.

Tribal Leadership and Governance

Tribal leadership and governance are also important factors that explain variation in tribal access to limited resources before state building. Tribal leaders in the Gulf States have a significant role in the political and social life of the region. They are often responsible for negotiating with the government and other stakeholders, and they play a key role in maintaining social order and stability. However, the book also explores how tribal leadership and governance can be influenced by external factors, such as political instability, economic development, and social change. For example, the book explores how the rise of Islamist movements in the Gulf States has led to the marginalization of tribal leaders and the erosion of their traditional authority.

Conclusion

Tribe–state relations are a foundational element of authoritarian bargains in the Middle East, particularly in the Gulf States. However, the structures of governance built upon this foundation exhibit significant variations. This book explores these variations and their implications for state formation and governance in the Gulf States. By examining the case studies of Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar, the book provides valuable insights into the role of tribalism in the region's political and social life and the challenges that it faces in the future.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474488174