Babahanoğlu, Veysel2025-10-112025-10-11202497983693568839798369356890https://doi.org/10.4018/979-8-3693-5688-3.ch015https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12684/21407The competition for power and interests in the Middle East in the 21st century stems from historical legacies, natural resources, ethnic and sectarian divisions, and external interventions. The region’s strategic location, abundant energy resources, and cultural heritage attract the attention of global and regional actors. The artificial borders drawn after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire have led to ethnic and sectarian conflicts. Competition over energy resources and water scarcity are among the main causes of conflicts. The lack of democracy and widespread corruption in the region further exacerbate instability. These political economy and social issues perpetuate conflicts in the region and weaken efforts towards their resolution, making the conflicts enduring. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.en10.4018/979-8-3693-5688-3.ch015info:eu-repo/semantics/closedAccessCultural HeritagesEnergyMiddle EastPolitical EconomyPowerResource ScarcitySocial IssuesStrategic LocationsWater ScarcityEconomic And Social EffectsBook Part2973182-s2.0-105007593158N/A