Security Politics in the Gulf Monarchies: Continuity Amid Change

The Gulf monarchies play crucial roles in world markets and politics, driven by oil revenues. Their economies have enabled generous welfare states, ruler-centric politics, and a heavy state presence in the economy. However, as the transition toward renewable energy looms, will they be able to adapt? David B. Roberts' book explores the forces challenging and bolstering the status quo in the Gulf region, examining key topics such as generational change in leadership, migrant workers, female labor force participation, U.S. military influence, and climate change.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 18 April 2023
Publisher: Columbia University Press

The Gulf monarchies, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates, hold significant roles in global markets and politics. Their economies, traditionally fueled by oil revenues, have driven transformative change while preserving traditional order. The wealth derived from fossil fuels has supported an implicit social contract characterized by generous welfare states, ruler-centric politics, and a substantial state presence in the economy, fostering stability during challenging times. However, as the transition towards renewable energy gathers momentum, will these Gulf monarchies be able to adapt?

In his comprehensive book, "Continuity and Change in the Gulf Region," David B. Roberts provides a definitive guide to understanding the dynamics of security in the Gulf region. He delves into the forces that challenge and bolster the status quo across various dimensions, including politics, society, economy, military, and environmental security. Roberts examines the six monarchies individually and holistically, considering their recent histories and contemporary concerns.

Beneath the sweeping changes affecting these countries, Roberts identifies key dynamics and structures that have endured over time. The book explores critical topics such as generational change in leadership, the role of migrant workers, female labor force participation, U.S. military influence, and the multifaceted threat of climate change. Roberts scrutizes how a shift away from the oil-centered economic model could reverberate across the social spectrum, with profound implications for security.

This book is suitable for a wide range of courses and offers valuable insights for experts. It provides an accessible and up-to-date overview of the politics of a key world region, making it an essential resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of the Gulf region.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231205252