Refugees and Diasporas: Conflict, Repatriation, and Assimilation
In this course we examine the issues surrounding refugees and diaspora,
focusing on Middle Eastern populations, in order to understand their role in
conflict in the host and home countries, the variables responsible for
repatriation or integration of refugees in their new homes, the role of legal
and humanitarian institutions, and the potential for identity and religious
mobilization among refugees. The reality of refugees and displaced persons
throughout the Middle East makes this an on-going issue of prime security
concern. The Palestinian case demonstrates the role that refugees can play in
ongoing home country de-stabilization. We examine the situation of the Iraqi
refugees at the end of the course.