Affluence & Poverty in the Middle East

 Affluence and Poverty in the Middle East is an introduction to the political economy of the Middle East, focusing on its most salient features - persistent poverty and extreme inequality. El-Ghonemy analyses the factors influencing the region, including its unique historical, religious and cultural mix, as well as its economic foundations and forms of corruption. For each factor he employs case-studies drawn from throughout the region, from Turkey to Sudan and Morocco to Iran. In the final section El-Ghomeny discusses possible solutions to the challenges facing the region, including possible uses of a peace dividend, and the role of democracy.

Review: "In sum, this is a very important book that should be read by everybody who is interested in the Middle East and who cares about its people (especially the poor and the disadvantaged). It will serve as a critical text in introductory courses in Middle Eastern studies. Unbridened by technical jargon, it is highly accessible to undergraduates. El-Ghonemy should be commended for writing about such a subject with uncharacteristic care and sensitivity.."

-AScAD ABUKHALIL, California State University

"M. Riad El-Ghonemy...has brought his extensive practical and political experience to bear on this challenging subject... The result is an engaging, personal, and accessible textbook on the economics of North Africa and the Middle East." Middle East Studies Association "Bulletin ."

"El Ghonemy examines the cumulative causes and consequences of persistent poverty and gross economic inequalities."

-"Book News