A Majority of Minorities? A New Look at the Middle East

As the Middle East undergoes profound transformation - from the Israel–Hamas war to the overthrow of the Assad regime in Syria and escalating tensions in Iran - the question of minorities has become more important than ever. These developments have brought long-standing structural vulnerabilities, political arrangements, and demographic pressures into sharper focus.

This conference examines the situation of minority communities in the Middle East through a series of thematic panels addressing identity, governance, and security. It seeks to advance understanding of current dynamics, assess potential future developments, and identify effective courses of action to preserve minority rights, prevent conflict, and support long-term stability. Particular attention is given to whether minority status is fixed or contextual, and to how political and social frameworks shape minority experiences across the region.

The program also explores the role of international assistance in relation to vulnerable minority communities. Discussions focus on competing approaches to support - humanitarian relief, economic assistance, political representation, and international protection - and on the criteria by which the effectiveness and sustainability of such interventions can be evaluated.

Finally, the conference addresses the effects of migration, emigration, remigration, and diaspora formation, examining how these processes transform the structure, cohesion, and functioning of minority communities. These discussions are complemented by comparative perspectives on political models and governance arrangements, as well as forward-looking assessments of the prospects for minorities in the Middle East.

Details:

Date & time: Wednesday, 11 February, 2026, 09:00 A.M.
Venue: Lónyay-Hatvany Villa, 1 Csónak Street, 1015 Budapest (Entrance: Aranybástya Restaurant)
Gate opens at 08:30 A.M.
Language: English

Participation is free; however, due to limited seating, pre-registration is required by clicking the button below.