Published: 1 June 2008
Air & Space Power Journal - Summer 2008

Political Handbook of the Middle East, 2006. Congressional Quarterly (CQ) Press (http://www.cqpress. com), 1255 22d Street, NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20037, 2006, 452 pages, $125.00 (hardcover).

Neither a light read nor a work of fiction, Political Handbook is a comprehensive work of detailed documentation on the political background of countries commonly considered as comprising the Middle East. Basically a textbook, it offers ready access to information concerning the political foundation, background, evolution, and current status of this region. The book’s wonderful introduction sets the stage for the detailed material to follow and gives the reader a taste of the crisp writing style found throughout. At the end of the book, one finds a treasure chest of useful facts on such important international entities as the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, United Nations, Arab League, and Palestine Liberation Organization, to name a few.

Its real value, however, lies in the body of the work, which offers detailed descriptions of the political organization of Middle Eastern countries. For each of the selected 25 nations, the study examines “The Country” (a historical look at its political formation); “Government and Politics” (a view of the political background and issues that molded the country, including a consideration of its constitution and government structure); “Current Issues” (what has recently [within the last five years] occurred in the political realm—in other words, what captures the interest of the current government); and “Political Parties and Groups” (a composite snapshot of dominant political organizations). Furthermore, sections on “Legislature,” “Communications,” and “Intergovernmental Representatives” identify current incumbents.

The publisher, CQ Press, has put its vast resources to good use in producing this worthwhile book. I recommend it to the serious student of regional studies, the individual who wants to know what has caused the current situation in this region, and the general reader who desires a deeper appreciation for news about that area of the world. Political Handbook would make an excellent addition to their professional libraries.

Col Joe McCue, USAF, Retired
Springfield, Virginia

Disclaimer

The conclusions and opinions expressed in this document are those of the author cultivated in the freedom of expression, academic environment of Air University. They do not reflect the official position of the U.S. Government, Department of Defense, the United States Air Force or the Air University.

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